A sugar substitute is a food additive that duplicates the effect of sugar in taste, usually with less food energy. Some sugar substitutes are natural and some are synthetic. Those that are not natural are, in general, referred to as artificial sweeteners.
There are also various syrups and solids that are comprised of sugar and sweeteners.
Concerns about obesity have been reported as a major drive for the sweetener market.
A 2006 report by Global Industry Analysts, covered in Food Navigator, has found that the US and Europe account for most (65 per cent) of the worldwide artificial sweetener industry.
Weight loss and maintenance, however, is not the only reason sweeteners are in demand. Diabetic people are also behind it, as they need alternatives to standard sugars.
Global Industry Analysts predicted that sucralose artificial sweeteners would prove to be the fastest grower within the sector.
Koncept Analytics has also gathered information on the sweetener industry, which also includes natural sweeteners.
It, too, has found that artificial sweeteners are popular due to concerns about diabetes and weight.
High intensity artificial sweeteners were found to be the biggest section of the market.
Natural sweeteners, however, were said to be rising as some people wish to avoid the potential side-effects correlated to artificial ones.
Artificial sweeteners have helped many individuals seeking to lose weight. Artificial sweeteners allow individuals to have the sweet taste they desire without the calories of sugar, or the spike in blood glucose levels.
However, many individuals misinterpret the benefit of artificial sweeteners. Artificial sweeteners should not be consumed in large portions.
The trend to embrace artificial sweeteners shows no signs of slowing down. A reported 180 million Americans consume artificial sweeteners on a regular basis. With continued research and new products on the horizon, artificial sweeteners should become more healthy and economical.
