Consumers are much more likely to opt for a sugar-free carbonated soft drink than a sugar-free yogurt or juice, according to new research from DSM.
The findings – based on an international survey conducted in the US, Mexico, Argentina, France and Australia – show that almost two-thirds of consumers are concerned about excess sugar intake. But the way respondents say they opt to reduce their intake of sweetened products varies dramatically between categories, having far-reaching implications on future product development, the global insights provider claimed.
More than twice as many consumers have opted for a sugar-free carbonated soft drink than a sugar-free juice, while 40% will opt for a low-sugar yogurt and just 20% for a completely sugar-free variant.
Health and weight are top of mind for consumers seeking low sugar and no-sugar options but interestingly taste is not. Just 20% of respondents said they preferred the taste of low- or zero-sugar products.
But there were significant national differences in terms of the extent that information is sought out. 43% of Mexicans — more than in any other market surveyed — say that they have done research into health issues related to sugar. And in spite of increasing concern about rising childhood obesity rates, only a minority of the low- and no-sugar treats bought by survey participants were intended for consumption by children.
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