一场真正的健康食糖革命正在发生

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution of sugar consumption, the rise of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), and the emerging trend towards healthier sweeteners like allulose in response to health concerns related to sugar and artificial sweeteners [3][5][7][11][14]. Historical Context - Sugar transitioned from a rare commodity to a staple in modern diets, with its history marked by the cultivation of sugarcane and the establishment of a plantation economy reliant on slave labor [3]. - The "sugar revolution" began in the 16th century as European colonizers introduced sugarcane to the Americas, leading to significant economic impacts and the development of capitalism [3]. Sugar Consumption Trends - In the 17th and 18th centuries, sugar consumption in countries like England increased nearly 20 times over a century, with global consumption reaching approximately 180 million tons annually [5]. - The introduction of HFCS in the 1960s, particularly in the U.S., led to its dominance as a sweetener, with annual consumption around 20 million tons, including 5 million tons in China [5]. Health Concerns - The 21st century has seen rising health concerns regarding HFCS, with studies linking its excessive intake to obesity and diabetes, contributing to a stagnation or decline in demand in Western markets [7]. - Global obesity rates have surged, with over 1 billion adults classified as obese, prompting a shift in consumer preferences towards healthier alternatives [7]. Artificial Sweeteners - The development of artificial sweeteners has progressed through multiple generations, with ongoing debates about their safety and health impacts [9]. - Recent studies have raised alarms about certain artificial sweeteners, such as erythritol and sucralose, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular events and other health issues [10]. Shift Towards Healthier Alternatives - Growing health consciousness among consumers has led to the implementation of food health grading systems in various countries, indicating a shift towards healthier dietary choices [11]. - Allulose, a natural sugar discovered 80 years ago, is gaining attention as a promising alternative due to its favorable properties, including low caloric content and minimal impact on blood sugar levels [11][12]. Market Potential for Allulose - Allulose is viewed as a potential mainstream sweetener, with estimates suggesting a market demand of 200,000 tons per year if it achieves a 1% penetration in the global sugar market [14].