全球预估1.4亿美元烘焙市场规模，阿洛酮糖获批，代糖真能完美“平替”蔗糖？真相没那么简单！

Core Viewpoint - The approval of allulose as a new food ingredient in China marks the beginning of a "new era of sugar substitutes," raising questions about whether sugar substitutes can completely replace traditional sugars [3][5]. Market Overview - The estimated market size for allulose in the baking sector is approximately $140 million in 2024, with the U.S. market accounting for 30%. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2025 to 2034 is expected to exceed 14%. By 2030, the market size in the baking sector could grow to between $275 million and $300 million [5]. Health Trends - With increasing health awareness, sugar control has become a daily task for many, including those looking to lose weight and diabetes patients. Sugar substitutes are seen as a "savior" in this context [8]. Product Characteristics - Allulose, a natural sugar found in foods like figs and raisins, has about 70% of the sweetness of sucrose but only 1/10th of the calories. It aids in weight management and is considered a "perfect substitute" for sucrose [10]. - In baking, allulose enhances the crispness of cookies and helps create the structure of meringue. In beverages, it can mitigate the astringency of sugar-free carbonated drinks and mask the off-flavors of plant proteins [12]. Taste and Flavor Challenges - Despite the advantages in calories and functionality, sugar substitutes struggle with taste and flavor. Sucrose can produce caramelization during cooking, which sugar substitutes cannot replicate. In baking, sucrose contributes to the softness and unique aroma of bread, which allulose may not achieve [13]. Metabolic and Health Considerations - From a metabolic perspective, sugar substitutes are not without risks. While they do not spike blood sugar levels like sucrose, their long-term effects on health are still uncertain. Some studies suggest that certain sugar substitutes may disrupt gut microbiota balance, potentially leading to digestive and metabolic issues [15]. - Although allulose is currently considered safe, the long-term health impacts of its widespread use in food remain to be validated through further research [15]. Psychological Factors - The human desire for sweetness is deeply ingrained, and many individuals may unconsciously overconsume calories after consuming sugar-free products, believing they can eat more due to lower calorie content. This psychological dependence on traditional sugars is not easily overcome by sugar substitutes [17]. Conclusion - The approval of allulose and other sugar substitutes provides more options for dietary health, particularly in calorie control and blood sugar stabilization. However, the complete replacement of traditional sugars is still challenged by taste, health impacts, and psychological factors. A balance between traditional sugars and sugar substitutes may be necessary for a healthier diet [18].