With consumers demanding lower sugar without any loss of comforting flavor, the dairy food industry has made great strides in reducing sugars in dairy products
Five main approaches to decrease or remove sugar from dairy foods
include direct reduction; substitution with a lower-calorie sweetener; substitution with a non-nutritive, high-intensity sweetener; utilization of processing technologies; and leveraging food science and sensory principles to enhance sweetness without sugar.
What sets AZ-ZERO apart is its use of monk fruit as a natural sweetener, delivering flavor without calories. Made with real lemons and natural flavors, AZ-ZERO is a choice for health-conscious consumers seeking a guilt-free lemonade experience.
In 2025, we can expect to see a convergence of several key trends that prioritize holistic health and personalized experiences. From liver health-focused products to sugar-inspired flavors without the added sugar, the industry is responding to the growing demand for healthier options that don't compromise on taste.
According to the IFIC survey, one-third of Americans (33%) reported changing their LNCS consumption habit between April 2023 and April 2024. While 10% said they increased LNCS consumption and 6% said they started consuming LNCS, 11% said they decreased LNCS consumption and 6% said they stopped consuming LNCS altogether.
In the rush to eliminate these sugars, developers often overlook the variety, richness, and culinary versatility that natural caloric sweeteners provide. Such sugars—also termed “nutritive sweeteners”—not only offer sweetness but can add layers of flavor, color, and even nutritional benefits, all in a clean-label format.
From allulose to blended sweetener systems, product developers have more options than ever to meet consumer demands for low-sugar, high-taste formulations
As we look toward 2025, the focus on sugar reduction will only intensify. Consumer demand for healthier, lower-sugar options is driving innovation at an unprecedented pace, and ingredient suppliers are responding with increasingly sophisticated solutions. From new plant-based sweeteners to advanced blended systems, the future of sugar reduction is bright—and product developers have more tools than ever to meet these evolving needs.
More than half of all participants in a recent survey report actively reducing their sugar consumption. US consumers also try to limit or reduce purchases of high sugar ingredients. Interestingly, consumers are unwilling to give up indulgences and they also look for healthier versions of indulgent foods.
The zero sugar products will roll out for the first time in the US, Amazon
September 27, 2024
“GURU Zero Wild Berry has already proven to be a huge success from the start, with our unique organic, zero-sugar formula, metabolism-boosting properties and unparalleled taste,” said Luc Martin-Privat, PharmD, GURU's brewmaster and vice president of R&D and innovation.
In the formulation of reduced sugar food and beverage products, ingredient trends are shifting towards clean label, natural alternatives that provide sweetness without compromising taste or texture.
By acknowledging the feelings of isolation and frustrations that many experience, Atkins Way offers a better way, providing freedom from a lifetime of dieting through a joyful approach to eating, says the brand.
Are you a leader in research & development? Stay ahead of the curve with Prepared Foods, the premier source of information and insights for today's trend leaders and taste-makers in food and beverage manufacturing.