Global Alternative Sweetener Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

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Alternative Sweetener Market Growth

Global Market Likely to be Driven by Increasing Health-consciousness Among Consumers

The demand in alternative sweetener market has increased with growing health concerns about the over-consumption of sugars in the modern diet. Today, such sweeteners are used in a wide range of packaged food products preferred by diabetics, those looking to diet and reduce weight, and other consumers who wish to restrict their sugar intake.

Artificial sweeteners are employed in a variety of food and beverages such as soft drinks and baked goods. Consumers are increasingly cutting back on sugar, and in order to keep up with consumer demand, formulators seek innovative ways to decrease sugar and maintain taste, which can offer lucrative alternative sweetener market opportunities. High-intensity sweeteners are used to replace sucrose in formulations; other ingredients are added to build back bulk and solids and maintain products’ sensory appeal.

Some manufacturers claim their sweeteners to be "natural", even if processed or refined; Stevia preparations are an example. On the other hand, some artificial sweeteners are derived from naturally occurring substances, for example, sucralose comes from sugar. Natural sweeteners are sugar substitutes and considered healthier than sugar or other sugar substitutes. However, even these natural sweeteners generally undergo processing and refining. Natural sweeteners include fruit juices and nectars, dates, honey, molasses, maple syrup, etc. Natural sweeteners are used at home as well as in processed foods. These are sometimes known as "added sugars" because they are added to foods during processing.

Alternative Sweetener Market Trends

Use of Artificial Sweeteners in Different Types of Food Expected to Drive Global Alternative Sweetener Market

Artificial sweeteners are synthetic sugar substitutes, but may be extracted from naturally occurring substances, like herbs or sugar itself. Artificial sweeteners are also called intense sweeteners as these are several times sweeter than sugar. Artificial sweeteners are an appealing option for customers as unlike sugar, these add no calories to the diet. Further, artificial sweeteners need be used in very small amounts as compared to the amount of sugar required for sweetness. Artificial sweeteners are widely employed in processed foods such as powdered drink mixes, soft drinks, and other beverages; baked food items; pudding; canned foods; candy; jams and jellies; and dairy products, boosting the growth of the alternative sweetener market. Common artificial sweeteners include aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame K, saccharin, and xylitol.

Sugar alcohols (polyols) are carbohydrates that are naturally present in certain fruits and vegetables, however, these may also be manufactured. Sugar alcohols are not alcoholic as these do not carry ethanol (found in alcoholic beverages). Sugar alcohols are not considered intense sweeteners as these are not sweeter than sugar. Indeed, some are less sweet than sugar. While sugar alcohols contain calories, they are lower than those in sugar, making them an appealing option, which can boost the alternative sweetener market development. Sugar alcohols are used in several types of processed foods, such as chewing gum, chocolate, and toothpaste. Sugar alcohols add sweetness, bulk and texture to food, and help food stay moist. Generally, sugar alcohols are used in combination with artificial sweeteners to enhance sweetness.

Health Benefits of Natural Sweeteners Expected to Boost Growth of Global Alternative Sweetener Market

Stevia is a popular low-calorie sweetener extracted from the leaves of a plant called Stevia rebaudiana. Stevia leaves contain several sweet compounds, key being stevioside and rebaudioside A; both are several times sweeter than sugar. Therefore, stevia is very sweet carries virtually no calories. It has been suggested that stevia has multiple health benefits, including those in blood pressure and blood sugar, contributing to the alternative sweetener demand.

Erythritol, a sugar alcohol and a low-calorie sweetener naturally occurs in some fruits. However, powdered erythritol available in markets is generally manufactured through an industrial process. Erythritol tastes like sugar but may leave a mild aftertaste. It has been reported that Erythritol does not elevate blood sugar or insulin levels, and that it does not affect cholesterol or triglycerides level.

Xylitol, a sugar alcohol with sweetness like that of sugar, is reported to have benefits for dental health, including decreased risk of cavities and dental decay. It may also enhance bone density and help prevent osteoporosis.

Yacon syrup, harvested from the yacon plant, is another unique sweetener in the alternative sweetener market. It is very high in fructooligosaccharides, which act as soluble fibres that feed the good bacteria in the intestine.

Monk fruit is a kind of fruit native to Southeast Asia. It is generally used to manufacture a natural sweetener called monk fruit extract; it is carbohydrate-free and calorie-free, and it has been suggested that it may help in better blood sugar management. Monk fruit also contains mogrosides (antioxidant compounds) which have been reported to decrease markers of inflammation.

Recent Developments

Better Juice Ltd announced that it is all set to launch a sugar-reduction technology which can reduce the sugar level in fruit sorbets, amid rising health-consciousness among consumers. The company announced that its enzymatic technology uses non-GMO microorganisms that can break down sucrose and glucose present in sorbets to non-digestible fibres without any negative impact on the nutritional content of the fruit juice. The company will showcase its innovative fruit sorbets at the IFT Expo expected to be held in Chicago in July 2024.

Industry Outlook

As per the alternative sweetener industry analysis, there is a wide range of alternative sweeteners that can be used instead of sugar or honey to provide a health-conscious option for consumers. For instance, Stevie, derived from the Stevie plant, contains almost zero calories and sugar content as its sweet taste is usually naturally occurring, which makes it an attractive option for people suffering from diabetes and weight gain issues due to sugar consumption.

Agave syrup, derived from agave plants, possesses a low glycemic index compared to sugar and can be useful for the management of diabetes as it does not affect the blood sugar level at an alarming rate. Furthermore, sugar alcohols such as erythritol, xylitol, and maltitol, among others, are naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables, therefore they do not raise sugar levels more than the permissible rate and can boost the alternative sweetener industry revenue.

Aspartame is another well-known alternative sweetener that is commonly used in sugar-free processed foods and offers a sugar-free and low-calorie alternative to natural sugar, offering consumers a healthier option. Furthermore, dates have been classified as a popular alternative sweetener option and also secured a position in the top food trends of 2023 by Whole Foods. It offers a clean and nutritious source of alternative sweetener as well as calcium and fibre which drives its demand in products such as syrup and paste.

Monk-Fruit, an FDA-approved fruit, gained acclamation worldwide as it offers around 200 to 300 times more sweetness than sugar without causing any increase in sugar levels and can boost the growth of the alternative sweetener industry. It is derived from green melon and is available in powder and liquid forms for distribution and can be found in desserts and candies. Allulose, an up-and-coming sweetener, is around 70 per cent as sweet as sugar with almost negligible calories and can find rising usage in food additives, as per the approval by the FDA.

Alternative Sweetener Industry Statistics in India

Jaggery, derived from sugarcane juice, holds a substantial alternative sweetener market share in India due to the high content of phosphorous and iron as well as low glycaemic index. It can add a syrupy flavour to desserts and teas, making it an emerging option among health-conscious consumers.

Alternative Sweetener Market Regional Analysis

North America accounts for a significant market share due to the burgeoning popularity of energy and sports drinks among gymgoers and health-conscious consumers, which necessitates the requirement of alternative sweeteners. On the other hand, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness rapid growth in the market due to the shift in consumer lifestyle and evolving dietary options.

What are the Factors Contributing to the Growth of the Global Alternative Sweetener Market?

• The increasing incidence of lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases is propelling the shift towards healthier sweetening options.

• A wide range of alternative sweeteners such as stevia, aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, xylitol, and erythritol provides various options for different consumer needs and preferences.

• Innovations in extraction and processing technologies have improved the taste, stability, and application of alternative sweeteners, positively influencing the alternative sweetener demand forecast.

• Approval and endorsement by major food safety authorities like the FDA and EFSA enhance consumer trust and market penetration.

What are the Challenges in the Global Alternative Sweetener Market?

• Some alternative sweeteners have an undesirable aftertaste or different taste profile compared to sugar, which can be a deterrent for consumers.

• The production processes for some alternative sweeteners, particularly natural ones like stevia and monk fruit, can be expensive, leading to higher prices for end consumers. 

• Misinformation and negative perceptions about the safety and health effects of some artificial sweeteners can affect alternative sweetener demand growth. 

• Varying regulatory standards and approval processes in different countries can delay the introduction and acceptance of new sweeteners. 

• The market is highly competitive with numerous players offering a variety of products, leading to price wars and reduced profit margins. 

• Volatility in the prices of raw materials used in the production of alternative sweeteners can affect profitability.

• Stricter regulations and potential changes in food safety standards can impact the approval and marketability of certain sweeteners. 

What Opportunities Exist in the Global Alternative Sweetener Market Share?

• Rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and changing dietary habits in emerging markets present significant growth opportunities.

• Increasing preference for natural and plant-based products is driving the demand for natural sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, and coconut sugar and further boosting the share of alternative sweeteners market. 

• Expanding applications of alternative sweeteners in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries provide growth opportunities. 

• Collaborations with food and beverage manufacturers to develop low-calorie and sugar-free products can drive market growth.

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Alternative Sweetener Industry Segmentations

By product, the market is segmented into:

• High Intensity Sweetener (HIS)

• Low Intensity Sweetener (LIS)

• High Fructose Syrup (HFS)

By source, the market is divided into:

• Natural

• Synthetic

By application, the market is classified into:

• Food and Beverages

• Pharmaceuticals

• Others

By region, the market is segmented into:

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East and Africa

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Competitive Landscape

The report presents a detailed analysis of the following key players in the market, looking into their capacity, and latest developments like capacity expansions, plant turnarounds, and mergers and acquisitions:

• Archer Daniels Midland Company

• Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

• Tate & Lyle Plc 

• Ingredion Incorporated

• Cargill, Incorporated

• International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (DuPont Nutrition & Health)

• Amai Proteins Ltd. 

• Others

The EMR report gives an in-depth insight into the industry by providing a SWOT analysis as well as an analysis of Porter’s Five Forces model.

Key Players in the Global Alternative Sweetener Market and their Competitive Strategies

Archer Daniels Midland Company

• As per the alternative sweetener market dynamics and trends, ADM utilizes a robust global supply chain network to source raw materials and distribute alternative sweeteners efficiently worldwide.

• With substantial investments in R&D, ADM innovates new sweetener solutions, focusing on enhancing taste profiles and addressing health concerns such as sugar reduction.

• ADM emphasizes sustainability across its supply chain, promoting eco-friendly practices and transparency, which resonates well with environmentally conscious consumers.

Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

• Ajinomoto leverages its technological prowess to develop innovative sweetener solutions with superior taste and functionality, meeting diverse consumer preferences, and increasing the alternative sweetener market revenue.

• Ajinomoto adopts aggressive market expansion strategies, particularly in Asia-Pacific and North America, capitalizing on growing health awareness and demand for low-calorie sweeteners.

• With a strong brand reputation built on quality and safety standards, Ajinomoto maintains consumer trust, positioning itself as a preferred supplier in the alternative sweetener market.

Tate & Lyle Plc

• Tate & Lyle specializes in developing customized ingredient solutions, including a wide range of alternative sweeteners, catering to various food and beverage applications, and aiding the alternative sweetener market expansion.

• Tate & Lyle collaborates closely with food manufacturers and beverage companies to co-create innovative products, enhancing their market presence and customer satisfaction.

• By promoting the health benefits of its sweeteners, Tate & Lyle targets health-conscious consumers, driving demand for its low-calorie and natural sweetener options.

Key Highlights of the Report

Alternative Sweetener Market Report Snapshots

Alternative Sweetener Market Size

Alternative Sweetener Market Growth

Alternative Sweetener Market Trends

Alternative Sweetener Companies

Alternative Sweetener Market Regional Analysis