Sugar reduction has become a prominent concern for both manufacturers and consumers, yet implementing this change is more challenging than it seems, especially since most consumers are reluctant to sacrifice sweetness. This is particularly true for Americans, who, according to Euromonitor data, consume an average of 126 grams of sugar daily, compared to just 34 grams for people in other regions. For manufacturers of confectionery and baked goods, simply cutting down on sugar is not enough; they must also consider factors such as texture, crumb, mouthfeel, volume, and weight.
Ashley Baker, vice president of research development and applications for the Kerry Group, highlighted during a recent webinar that while consumers often view lower-sugar products as healthier, they are also concerned about potential impacts on taste. “When reformulating, you not only need to replicate the sweetness but also address the loss of weight in the product,” he explained. “You might replace the flavor of sugar with a blend of sweeteners, but to compensate for the bulk, you could incorporate fibers and hydrocolloids to restore what you’ve removed.”
When trying to replace cane sugar with alternative sweeteners, there is no single ingredient that can fully replicate the qualities lost through reduction. Courtney Gaine, president and CEO of the Sugar Association, recently mentioned to Food Dive that adding alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to a product requires additional ingredients to mimic the sweetness and weight of cane sugar. As food manufacturers navigate these challenges, they must also remain conscious of their profit margins. Although the market for naturally derived sweeteners is expanding rapidly, stevia and monk fruit still account for a relatively small share of the market. They tend to be pricier than synthetic high-intensity sweeteners and often come with aftertaste issues.
Regardless of the strategies employed, food manufacturers need to prioritize transparency to meet consumer demands for reduced sugar in their foods and beverages. With the U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandating the inclusion of added sugars on the 2020 Nutrition Facts panel update, there will be increased scrutiny on ingredients. Moreover, consumers are becoming more mindful of total calorie counts, which may influence their choices when selecting their next sweet treat.
In this context, it is important for consumers to be aware of their nutritional options. For instance, products like Solgar Calcium Magnesium with Vitamin D3 Liquid offer beneficial nutrients that can support overall health, particularly for those who are actively reducing sugar intake. As consumers consider healthier alternatives, incorporating such supplements can be part of a balanced approach to nutrition. Ultimately, as the industry evolves, the integration of innovative ingredients will be crucial for meeting both health demands and taste preferences.