Sugar, the most essential kitchen staple, has been a flavour power-house for centuries. But these days, taste buds are craving more than just sweetness. This article represents the exciting world of alternative flavours and sweeteners that offers a broad option for the taste buds. Low energy foods or products with reduced energy value, are very popular among the consumers.
There is a need for developing the new and enriched existing products now days. The consumer’s awareness is also should be raised. They want primarily satisfaction, the need for the sweet taste. Also, for maintaining or reducing body weight without any consequences for the health.
Table sugar can fit into a healthful diet, but industries may prefer to incorporate that with alternatives for variety of reasons. There is no ‘silver bullet’ option when choosing a sugar substitute. Impact of “Nutritive sweeteners” can Impact on blood sugar levels and high intakes are associated with increased risk of certain chronic diseases. Neither non-nutritive options not contain any calories nor contribute to blood sugar changes in the same way.
Flavour trends in the food industry are constantly shifting, influenced by changing consumer demands and innovations in manufacturing and ingredient advancement. The alternative flavour market continues to grow due to the increasing demand for alternative proteins and functional foods, driving the need for technologies to enhance taste and texture of the food.
Here are some examples for alternative sugars and flavours,
- Meaty flavors for plant-based applications
With the recent supply for vegan food options, the industry is seeking more ways to incorporate meaty flavors into their innovations. Smoky BBQ, umami mushroom, spicy chipotle, herb-roasted chicken, garlic herb steak are some examples for that alternative flavour.
- Citrus Burst
A zesty and invigorating combination of lemon, lime, and orange flavors, perfect for adding a bright and tangy twist to your dishes.
- Minty Fresh
A cool and refreshing flavor profile with hints of mint and eucalyptus, ideal for adding a crisp and clean taste to your recipes.
Benzaldehyde is an organic chemical closely resembles the flavour of roasted almonds and ethyl vanillin which is 3 times potent than natural vanilla extract used is various confectionery items. Also, several ester derivatives are used for mimicking natural fruit flavours like strawberry, guava and cherry. Knowingly or unknowingly these chemicals pose a considerable threat to human health.
- Stevia
Stevia is a natural sweetener that is derived from the leaves of the South American shrub Stevia rebaudiana. This plant-based sweetener can be extracted from one of two compounds called glycosides — stevioside and rebaudioside. These compounds don’t contain any calories, also it has the sweeteness 450 times than sugar and it may taste slightly different than sugar.
- Sugar alcohols
Sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, are a type of carbohydrate naturally found in fruits and vegetables.
Popular sugar alcohols used as sugar alternatives include erythritol, xylitol, and maltitol.
The bacteria in your mouth can’t ferment sugar into alcohols, so they can’t damage to teeth the way that regular sugar does. Also, they have substantially fewer calories and it can’t significantly affect blood sugar levels. That make them a smart alternative for those with diabetes.
- Honey
Honey is a thick, golden liquid produced by honeybees. It contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals, as well as an abundance of plant compounds that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Yet, the types of plant compounds in honey depend on many factors, including the type of bee that produced the honey and the type of flower the bee was feeding on.
Honey compounds, such as honey polyphenols may help modulate inflammation in the body. Honey also has a slightly lower glycemic index (GI) than table sugar. These qualities may make it healthier than refined sugar.
References.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/natural-sugar-substitutes
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-candy-alternatives
Article by: Maleesha Perera (3rd Year)