Natural Alternative Sweeteners Market in the US by Competitive Product

Report Overview

Stevia, Monk Fruit Drive Growth in Alternative Sweeteners Market

US demand for alternative sweeteners will be fueled by growing concerns regarding the health impact of excess sugar consumption in the average US diet. “All natural” and “clean label” trends within the food and beverage markets will also impact demand. Additionally, development of stevia and monk fruit products with improved flavor profiles will influence product mix.

Key Findings in the Natural Alternative Sweeteners Study:

Stevia to Become Largest Natural Alternative Sweetener Type

Stevia is forecast to account for over one-quarter of total demand in 2021, supported by identification and development of new, better-tasting rebaudioside fractions. The fastest growth will be seen for monk fruit, supported by expanded cultivation and increased availability of the raw fruit. Agave nectar and coconut sugar will post below-average gain, as consumers increasingly turn to non-nutritive natural alternative sweeteners.

Strong Growth in Natural Alternative Sweeteners Buoyed by Food and Beverage Trends

Growth for natural alternative sweeteners is forecast to expand at a double digit pace through 2021, with gains supported by growing consumer interest in “all natural” and “clean label” foods and beverages. Stevia products will be a strong growth market, as producers offer a larger selection of products with improved flavor profiles. Below average advances, however, are forecast for agave nectar, as concerns regarding the potential health impact of its consumption restrain growth.

Food Applications to Continue as the Largest Use of Alternative Sweeteners

The fastest gains are expected in the food market, supported by the ongoing development of new applications for alternative sweeteners in a wide variety of applications, including dairy products and baked goods. Below average advances are forecast for beverage applications, as the production of carbonated soft drinks declines further and the popularity of lightly or unsweetened beverages grows. Aging demographic trends and the introduction of new advanced therapies will support above average growth for alternative sweeteners in pharmaceuticals.

Study Coverage

This study presents historical demand data (2006, 2011, and 2016) and forecasts (2021) by product, including xylitol, stevia, agave nectar, erythritol, coconut sugar, and monk fruit. Data is also presented for market segments, including food applications, beverages, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals. The study also evaluates next generation natural alternative sweeteners including allulose, brazzein, tagatose, and thaumatin.