Nestlé to cut sugar levels in its chocolate

Food producer Nestlé claims it has discovered a way to drastically reduce the amount of sugar in its chocolate bars.
Nestlé to cut sugar levels in its chocolate

In a boost for those with a sweet tooth, the world’s largest food company has said it has developed a method of cutting up to 40% of sugar from its confectionery.

The Swiss company, which makes Aero, Rolos, and KitKat, said it has found a way to structure sugar differently using natural ingredients, so that even when much less is used in chocolate, consumers will barely taste the difference.

The move comes amid pressure on food companies to slash sugar levels and make products healthier over fears that increasing consumption is causing a rise in obesity and conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Nestlé’s chief technology officer, Stefan Catsicas, likened the process involved to making sugar crystals that are hollow and faster-dissolving.

The discovery will allow the company to reduce the sugar amount while maintaining the same taste.

“This truly groundbreaking research is inspired by nature and has the potential to reduce total sugar by up to 40% in our confectionery,” said Mr Catsicas. “Our scientists have discovered a completely new way to use a traditional, natural ingredient.

Nestlé is hoping to patent its discovery and introduce the process in 2018 to gradually reduce sugar content.

Food companies have come under increasing pressure to reduce sugar levels amid a worsening health crisis, with the Government announcing in the budget that it will introduce a tax on soft drinks with added sugar in 2018.

More in this section

Irish homelessness Government criticised for missing social and affordable housing targets
National Risk Assessment for Ireland Tánaiste urges Israel ‘to show humanity’ and allow more aid into Gaza
Lego set based on RNLI lifeboat could soon become a reality Lego set based on RNLI lifeboat could soon become a reality
War_map
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited