Oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide, often caused by everyday habits like high sugar intake, smoking, and alcohol consumption7.Poor oral health isn’t just about cavities, it can lead to serious complications making healthy choices essential for overall well-being.
For the F&B industry, meeting the growing demand for low-sugar alternatives is no longer just a trend—it’s a necessity. As awareness of sugar’s impact on oral health rises, consumers are actively seeking healthier options. Natural sweeteners provide a way for manufacturers to innovate while supporting public health initiatives.
This shift toward better ingredients not only helps reduce sugar-related health risks but also enhances brand reputation and strengthens customer loyalty in an increasingly competitive market. But which natural sweeteners can best meet these needs?
Isomalt & Isomaltulose
Isomalt is a sugar replacer with a natural taste and sweetness that does not cause tooth decay (non-cariogenic). It has half the calories of regular sugar and a low glycaemic response, making it ideal for reduced-sugar products. It is odourless, crystalline, and non-hygroscopic, available in both powder and liquid forms6.Additionally, Isomalt supports digestive health as it acts as a prebiotic fibre, promoting gut microbiota balance.
Isomaltulose is a slowly digestible, low-glycaemic carbohydrate that provides steady, prolonged energy release. Like Isomalt, it is non-cariogenic with a mild, natural taste, making it a great choice for balanced energy formulations2.It also helps improve metabolic health by supporting fat oxidation and maintaining stable blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for sustained energy and overall well-being.
Applications in F&B
Isomalt is a great ingredient for no-added sugar and tooth-friendly hard candies. It is also widely used in chewing gum coatings, chocolates, cereals, and baked goods, delivering sweetness with fewer calories and a low glycaemic response.
Isomaltulose is a slow-digesting carbohydrate that provides steady energy without causing sugar spikes, making it ideal for sports nutrition and functional foods. It supports endurance, fat metabolism, and sustained performance, especially for active individuals. Unlike regular sugar, it is not fermented by oral bacteria, meaning it does not cause tooth decay or cavities, making it a tooth-friendly option for healthier F&B products2.
Stevia
Stevia sweeteners are zero-calorie alternatives that reduce added sugar intake while still delivering satisfying sweetness. Made from highly refined stevia extracts and naturally sourced ingredients, they enhance flavour without the need for extra sugar1.With an intense sweetness 200-350 times greater than sugar, only a small amount is needed to achieve the same level of sweetness3.
Despite its intense sweetness, stevia does not cause tooth decay, as oral bacteria cannot ferment it into harmful acids. It also has little to no impact on blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for diabetics and those managing their weight. Additionally, stevia offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support overall health.
Applications in F&B
Stevia is an ideal sugar alternative for soft drinks, fruit juices, sports drinks, and desserts like cookies and candies. It also works well in dairy products like yogurt and ice cream, maintaining a healthy nutritional profile. With its ability to sweeten without promoting dental caries, Stevia is a popular choice for health-conscious food formulations.
Monk Fruit
Monk fruit, or Luo Han Guo, is a small sub-tropical melon native to East and South-East Asia. Its juice concentrate is a natural sweetener that is 15-20 times sweeter than sugar, offering a clean flavour without any lingering bitterness5. Available in liquid drops, granulated, and powdered forms, it offers a versatile alternative to traditional sweeteners4.
Beyond its tooth-friendly properties, monk fruit is packed with antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. With a low glycaemic index, it is an excellent option for those managing blood sugar levels while still enjoying the sweetness of their favourite foods and beverages.
Applications in F&B
Monk fruit is commonly used in beverages like soft drinks, juices, and sports drinks as a zero-calorie alternative to sugar. It’s also a key ingredient in baked goods, candies, and desserts, offering sweetness without extra calories.
As consumers shift towards healthier lifestyles, natural sweeteners are emerging as essential ingredients in the food and beverage industry. By offering alternatives like isomaltulose, isomalt, stevia, and monk fruit, manufacturers can cater to the growing demand for products that not only taste great but also support oral health.
These sweeteners provide an opportunity to innovate while meeting consumer expectations for health-conscious choices. Connect with our experts today to explore the best natural sweeteners for your products.
At DPO International, we are proud to partner with global leaders to bring these solutions to food manufacturers across Asia. Our commitment to health and quality ensures that your products not only taste great but also support better oral health.
