Sugar reduction
Reducing sugar consumption is not just a passing trend; it is a top priority for many consumers concerned about their health. In their search for healthier options, consumers are looking for products with reduced sugar that still provide the same satisfaction as their regular beverages, but with fewer calories, carbs, sugar, and fat. People have various reasons for choosing sugar-reduced products, including weight management, other health concerns, or simply a preference for less sweet products.
Not only do consumer have increasingly negative perception of sugary products, but many countries also continue to implement sugar taxes and stricter requirements for labelling of sweet products. Therefore, confectionary products must balance between nutritional concerns and flavour. As per Nielsen products without added sugar accounts for 45% of the food and beverage market and saw a 8.6% market increase in 2023.
Examples of popular sugar free applications:
- Hard Seltzer
Hard seltzers are popular for their low-calorie appeal. Consumers often choose hard seltzers because they perceive them as a lighter, lower-calorie alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, or cocktails. The reduction in sugar directly contributes to lowering the overall calorie content, making it a key selling point for these drinks.
- Energy Drinks
There is growing awareness about the detrimental health effects of consuming too much sugar, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. As a result, people are becoming more mindful of their sugar consumption and are looking for healthier options. Many consumers, especially younger generations, are focusing on leading healthier lives, which involves cutting back on sugary drinks. In response to this trend, energy drink companies are offering options with lower sugar content or are completely sugar-free.
- Carbonated Soft Drinks
By offering low-calorie or sugar-free products, brands can appeal to a broader audience, including those who might otherwise avoid Carbonated Soft Drinks due to their high sugar content.