Bloomberg reported that the American Heart Association recommends a limit of 29 pounds of added sugar per year for men and 20 pounds for women. However, according to the USDA, the average American consumed an alarming 128 pounds of sugar in 2016. This indicates a clear need for the nation to reduce sugar intake, particularly in terms of corn syrup consumption. While both substances are unhealthy in excess, studies from Princeton University and the University of Utah suggest that corn syrup has more detrimental health effects than regular sugar.
Health advocates have cautioned consumers against overindulging in sugar-laden foods, including soft drinks and sweetened cereals. In response, many food manufacturers have been working diligently to reformulate their products to lower sugar levels, especially by eliminating or substituting corn syrup. Some companies have even opted to reintroduce sugar into their products instead of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). For instance, PepsiCo launched Pepsi Throwback and Mountain Dew Throwback in 2009, providing consumers with naturally sugar-sweetened soft drink options. These limited-time offerings proved to be so popular that they became permanent items in the company’s product range. Similarly, in 2015, Kraft revamped its original Capri Sun kids’ drink recipe to use sugar rather than HFCS as a sweetener.
However, don’t expect the trend of adding more sugar back into products instead of corn syrup to become a long-term solution. There has been considerable backlash against high sugar levels, HFCS, and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin in food products. The FDA initially mandated that food manufacturers disclose the grams of added sugars in packaged foods and beverages as part of a revamped nutrition facts label, but this deadline has been postponed. Additionally, state soda taxes have kept the issue of sugar reduction at the forefront of consumer awareness.
Instead, ingredient and food manufacturers are focused on discovering the next best low- or no-calorie “natural” and “healthy” sweeteners. A growing number of companies are experimenting with stevia in their products, while also exploring alternatives like monk fruit, date paste, and sweet potatoes. The American consumer’s love for sugary foods is unlikely to diminish. However, what is expected to change is the source of the sweeteners used in food and beverage manufacturing processes. It’s worth noting that some consumers may also be exploring options like omeprazole and calcium citrate to address health concerns associated with high sugar intake. As a result, the landscape of sweeteners will continue to evolve, reflecting both consumer preferences and health considerations.