Sugar, a simple carbohydrate that provides a quick source of energy, present in many of the foods and beverages we consume daily — from fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to candies, pastries, and other desserts.

Gummies are one of the most popular confectionery products enjoyed by people of all ages. Their fun shapes, bright colours, and chewy texture make them a go-to treat for both children and adults. However, most gummies are high in sugar, which provides quick energy but can also contribute to various health concerns when consumed excessively⁷.

As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for reduced-sugar, functional, and fortified gummies is on the rise, offering a sweet indulgence that aligns with healthier lifestyles. Reflecting this shift, the Asia Pacific gummy market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.9% from 2024 to 2030, driven by increasing health awareness and consumer interest in gummies that deliver added nutritional or functional benefits⁵.

FLOE: Sugar-Free Gummy

In light of this, we have created FLOE, sugar-free gummy product concept that provides guilt-free indulgence with a fresh twist. These chewy gummies deliver fruity bursts of flavour while keeping calories in check. With edible glitters for playful shine and a cool breath-freshening effect, FLOE makes every bite a fun, confident, and refreshing treat without guilt.

Formulated with a natural sweetener, along with essential vitamins and minerals, FLOE combines enjoyment and nourishment, perfectly aligning with the rising demand for functional and fortified gummies.

Key Factors Driving the Gummy Market

Rising Health and Wellness Awareness⁹

Consumers today no longer see gummies as just a regular sweet treat. They are looking for options that go beyond taste, choosing gummies enriched with vitamins, minerals, and functional ingredients to support their daily nutrition. This growing demand has encouraged the development of products with lower sugar, fewer artificial additives, and higher antioxidant, protein, and fibre content, reflecting a stronger focus on overall health and wellness.

Convenience and Enjoyment⁶

Gummies stand out for their fun, easy-to-consume format that appeals to consumers of all ages. Their chewy texture, fruity flavours, and colourful appearance turn supplementation into a treat rather than a chore. Research shows that 78% of consumers find gummies enjoyable to take, 75% appreciate their taste, and 73% value their convenience, making them one of the most recognised and preferred supplement formats among women and parents.

Challenges in the Gummy Market Today

While gummies remain a favourite across all age groups, their production still faces challenges that limit their appeal to health-conscious consumers.

High-Sugar Formulations Cause Dental Concerns

Most conventional gummies rely heavily on sugar to achieve their chewy texture and flavour. The sticky, sugary nature of gummies can contribute to tooth decay and cavities, especially among children⁴. This happens because bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and produce acids that attack tooth enamel, and the gummy’s stickiness prolongs contact with teeth, increasing the risk of decay.

Digestive Concerns Linked to Artificial Sweeteners

 Some gummies contain artificial sweeteners or sugar alcohols, such as xylitol, sorbitol, or erythritol, which can cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. Common effects include bloating, gas, mild upset stomach, or diarrhea, especially when consumed in larger amounts³.  Erythritol generally has milder effects, but high intakes may still lead to nausea or gas. As a result, consumers are increasingly seeking clean-label, natural ingredients that are gentle on the digestive system.

Limited Functional Nutrition

While gummies are widely enjoyed for their taste and chewy texture, many available products still provide limited nutritional or functional benefits. They tend to be high in