-KH News Desk (cbdigital@imaws.org)
Beneo, a functional ingredients supplier, is introducing a new product called Beneo-scL85 to meet the growing consumer demand for low-sugar products. Beneo-scL85 is a short-chain fructooligosaccharide derived from beet sugar. It acts as a prebiotic and is not digested in the small intestine. The ingredient offers a mildly sweet taste, good solubility, and natural credentials contributing to improved taste and texture. It can be used for bulking in various applications such as bakery, dairy, and cereals.
Reducing sugar content in food products is a challenge for manufacturers as it can impact the texture, structure, color, and shelf-life of the products. Beneo-scL85 provides an option for manufacturers to reduce sugar while maintaining the desired product characteristics. According to Beneo, 57% of consumers consider “low in sugar” claims when making purchasing decisions. The introduction of Beneo-scL85 will enable more customers to respond to this consumer trend through new product development or reformulation.
The global reduced sugar food and beverage market is valued at $46.18 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.9% from 2022 to 2030, driven by increased demand for healthy and low-sugar foods and drinks.
In addition to its sugar-reducing properties, Beneo-scL85 also adds dietary fiber, enhancing the nutritional profile of the products. This allows manufacturers to offer healthier options to consumers. Eric Neven, commercial managing director for Beneo’s functional fibers, states, “Beneo-scL85 is a valuable addition to Beneo’s portfolio because it increases flexibility and availability for our customers. He also added, “It will further secure supply to meet the high demand for solutions to reduce sugar.”
Although consumers seek to reduce their sugar intake, most consume far more than the recommended amount. The American Heart Association recommends that men consume no more than 9 teaspoons of added sugar per day, while women should limit it to 6 teaspoons. However, on average, American adults consume around 17 teaspoons of added sugar daily, significantly exceeding the recommended limits.
Beneo-scL85 provides an alternative ingredient to help manufacturers meet consumer demand for low-sugar products while maintaining taste, texture, and quality.
