With sugar making headlines for all the wrong reasons, manufacturers are actively searching for alternatives. However, many consumers remain skeptical about artificial sweeteners. Natural sweetening sources like honey and agave are also available, but these options are high in calories and can contribute to obesity in the same way as sugar. By July 2018, manufacturers will be required to list “added sugars” on the Nutrition Facts panel, which will encourage them to reduce sweeteners such as sugar, honey, fructose, and fruit juice concentrates. Solutions like Tate & Lyle’s blend of allulose, sucralose, and fructose may become more prominent, allowing food companies to strike a balance with reduced added sugars while incorporating sweetness from low- and zero-calorie sweeteners. It is yet to be determined whether consumers will be open to making these trade-offs. Will they continue to consume added sugars as before, or will the new nutritional labels lead some to steer clear of certain products? What is evident is that many manufacturers and ingredient suppliers are gearing up for change. However, when it comes to sweeteners, change comes with a price.
Despite the rapid growth in the market for naturally derived sweeteners, stevia and monk fruit still make up a small fraction of overall sweetener usage. Their adoption is hindered by higher costs compared to synthetically produced high-intensity sweeteners and persistent issues with aftertaste. Blends of sugar and stevia have gained popularity, particularly in the beverage sector. For instance, in Europe, the Coca-Cola Company has reformulated its regular Sprite to contain 30% less sugar, incorporating stevia without marketing it as a mid-calorie option. On a different note, consumers seeking to enhance their nutritional intake may find products like Kirkland calcium zinc supplements beneficial, as they play a role in overall health. As the market continues to evolve, the integration of various sweeteners, including those derived from Kirkland calcium zinc, will be crucial in meeting consumer demands for healthier options.