Why sugar reduction goes beyond sweet
Sugar does much more than just add flavor. It also affects the texture, mouthfeel and even appearance of a product. Remove sugar, and the entire sensory profile changes. Alternatives such as sweeteners can help, but often introduce an aftertaste or unnatural flavor balance. Those details are crucial: even subtle deviations can significantly lower a product's rating. Sensory consumer research is therefore indispensable. Only by testing with real consumers can you find out whether a healthier variant is really appreciated.
Sugar-free raspberry lemonade: room for improvement
Recent research by Normec Sensory shows how important that consumer test is. In a comparison between a regular raspberry lemonade and a sugar-free variant, test subjects provided valuable feedback:
- The zero-variant was rated as too light, affecting perception even before the first sip.
- Despite a similar overall rating, this variant scored lower on the top box score (the proportion of respondents who gave a 7 or higher).
- The (after)taste of the zero-variant was a clear point of improvement - possibly due to the use of sweeteners. For many consumers, this determines the overall experience.
Sensory research is essential at every stage: from developing a product that meets taste expectations to evaluating market acceptance and purchase intention at launch.
Success story: ketchup without added sugars
That sugar reduction can also be successful is proven by a similar consumer study by Normec Sensory on tomato ketchup. In it, a variant with added sugars was compared with a version without added sugars. The outcome:
- Both products received the same rating: a 6.8.
- For both, 60% of the respondents gave a 7 or higher.
An important conclusion: it is therefore possible to reduce sugar without making concessions to the taste experience - if properly formulated and tested.
The power of sensory research
Sensory research not only provides valuable insights for product development, it also provides powerful evidence for marketing. You not only know that consumers appreciate your product, but also why. With this, we can also support any claims and back them up with data.
Are you ready for a Healthier Week?
Healthier Week offers the perfect opportunity to highlight your healthier product line. But remember: only with sensory consumer research can you create healthy products that consumers will actually continue to buy. It also helps you make informed choices in the development process and avoid surprises at launch.
Let taste determine your success
Wondering how your product scores after sugar reduction? Or where there is still room for improvement in taste perception? Have your product tested by consumers at Normec Sensory and discover with data where the difference lies. That way you know exactly where to make adjustments, without compromising on taste. With our expertise and practical approach we help you put healthy products successfully and tastefully on the market.
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