Serial Snacking
Atypical
Sweetener
Consumers swap refined sugars for natural-based alternatives.
Trend
What is the Atypical Sweetener trend?
Atypical Sweetener: With the harmful effects of excess sugar consumption now being widely publicized, consumers have begun searching for low-calorie alternatives. The rising popularity of less refined sugars and sweeteners -- especially those that come from natural sources -- indicates not only that preventative health is at the forefront of consumers' purchasing decisions; it also showcases a willingness on the part of the Western consumer to look at other cultures for health inspiration.
Trend themes
Themes within the Atypical Sweetener trend
Three behaviours holding the trend togetherLess Refined Sweeteners
Consumers are turning to low-calorie natural-based sweeteners.
Sugar-Free Products
A growing demand for sugar-free alternatives to popular treats.
De-Sugared Beverages
De-sugared or sugar-free options of popular juice drinks are gaining popularity.
Industry implications
What the Atypical Sweetener trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookFood & Beverage Industry
Opportunities arise for businesses to cater to the growing popularity of less refined and sugar-free alternatives in their products.
Health and Wellness Industry
Businesses can capitalize on health-conscious consumers looking for healthier sugar alternatives.
Cultural Industry
Companies can bring cultural awareness by incorporating traditional recipes and celebrations into their products.
Workshop question
What outside influences can you draw from to intrigue consumers looking for something new?
Trend signals
Trend signals for Atypical Sweetener
Trend score 2.9 out of 10, from popularity 41%, activity 37%, freshness 8%.
- Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X
- Boomer (not a primary audience)
Evidence
Examples of the Atypical Sweetener trend
8 featured examples from May 28, 2015 to Jan 18, 2017Flavorful De-Sugared Juices
The Edit De-Sugared 100% Tart Cherry Juice Has Antioxidant Properties
Opportunity for beverage companies to innovate and offer healthier, low-sugar options to meet consumer demand.
Decadent Sugar-Free Cakes
This Rich Chocolate Cake is Sweetened with Natural Ingredients
The bakery industry can incorporate natural sweeteners to offer healthier alternatives of cakes, pastries, and baked goods, meeting the consumer's growing demand for healthy optio…
Guilt-Free Artisan Confections
Zimt's Organic Treats are Made from Raw Cocoa Ingredients
Opportunity for companies in the food and beverage industry to create organic and raw vegan chocolate products to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Sugar-Free Wellness Chocolates
MAZA Chocolate is Sweetened with Nothing but Organic Palmyra Nectar
Incorporating sugar-free options into chocolate production can attract health-conscious consumers and meet their demand for indulgent yet healthier treats.
Tea-Infused Toppings
Masala Chai Tea Mixed In With Coconut Whipped Cream Goes Great On Fruit
Opportunities for businesses to create and market coconut whipped cream and masala chai-infused products.
Sweet Sugar Skull Cookies
Starbucks is Celebrating Day of the Dead with Sugar Skull Shortbread
The food and beverage industry can leverage the trend of offering unique and culturally relevant treats to attract customers and enhance their overall experience.
Diabetic-Friendly Jams
The New Stute Foods Fruit Jams Have No Added Sugar
Food manufacturers can introduce a line of diabetic-friendly products to appeal to health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions.
Remixed Sandwich Desserts
The Minimalist Baker's PB & J Muffins are Vegan-Approved
Disruptive Innovation Opportunity: Research and develop new plant-based and healthier food products to meet the growing demand for nutritious and sustainable options.