Trend cluster
Category

Atypical
Sweetener

Consumers swap refined sugars for natural-based alternatives.

Flavorful De-Sugared JuicesDecadent Sugar-Free CakesGuilt-Free Artisan ConfectionsSugar-Free Wellness ChocolatesTea-Infused Toppings

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 together
01

Less Refined Sweeteners

Consumers are turning to low-calorie natural-based sweeteners.

02

Sugar-Free Products

A growing demand for sugar-free alternatives to popular treats.

03

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 playbook
For

Food & Beverage Industry

Opportunities arise for businesses to cater to the growing popularity of less refined and sugar-free alternatives in their products.

For

Health and Wellness Industry

Businesses can capitalize on health-conscious consumers looking for healthier sugar alternatives.

For

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%.

Popularity41%
Activity37%
Freshness8%
Audience
30%Men
70%Women
  • Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X
  • Boomer (not a primary audience)
Market
North America
Europe

Evidence

Examples of the Atypical Sweetener trend

8 featured examples from May 28, 2015 to Jan 18, 2017
Flavorful De-Sugared Juices
CategoryLifestyle

Flavorful 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
CategoryLifestyle

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
CategoryLifestyle

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
CategoryLifestyle

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
CategoryLifestyle

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
CategoryLifestyle

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
CategoryLifestyle

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
CategoryLifestyle

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.