It seems like in just the past 3 or 4 years, the popularity of artificial sweeteners has shot up greatly. Now, people are using it in everything from tea and coffee to chewing gum and ice cream. So, what does the future hold for artificial sweeteners? Here we’ll take a look at some of the possibilities that foresee this growing new industry, as well as some of the concerns surrounding it.
Artificial Sweeteners Currently on The Market
Have you noticed all of the different brands of artificial sweeteners on the market? Taking a trip down the sugar isle at your local supermarket will reveal more than half a dozen different types of artificial sweeteners, including:
- Splenda
- Sweet N’ Low
- SugarTwin
- Equal
- NutraSweet
- Sweet One
- Stevia
With so many different types of artificial sweeteners available, consumers are often left in the dark as to what the difference is between them. To make matters worse, there are countless reports stating the “dangers” related to artificial sweeteners. To better understand these artificial sweeteners and the advantages and disadvantages associated with them, we have to take a deeper look into what they’re made with. All the sweeteners listed above (with the exception of Stevia), is made with either Acesulfame potassium, Aspartame, Neotame, Saccharin or Sucralose.
Advantages of Artificial Sweeteners
The main reason why people choose artificial sweeteners over traditional sugar is that it doesn’t contain calories. With obesity continuing to rise to epidemic levels throughout the country, individuals are looking for ways to cut out calories, such as using artificial sweeteners. Along with weight loss benefits, a reduced risk of diabetes is also associated with artificial sweeteners.
Disadvantages and Possible Dangers of Artifical Sweeteners
Everyone’s heard of the possible dangers of using artificial sweeteners. A few years ago, people were concerned that the little pink packets of artificial sweeteners at restaurants would cause cancer. In fact, this was so widespread that the labels on the artificial sugar packets had to come with a disclaimer stating that it’s use has been found to cause cancer in laboratory animals. The truth is that no major health institute has been able to successfully link the use artificial sweeteners to cancer or any other serious concern, so keep sweetening your tea and coffee with these substitutes.
While no one knows for sure what the future holds for artificial sweeteners, sales remain steady and profitable for the industry. With more people looking for no-calorie alternatives to sugar, this trend is likely only going to continue in the years to come.