IFIC Spotlight Survey: Perceptions & Use Of Dietary Sweeteners
May 5, 2021
Research Type
It’s common to hear cautious phrases surrounding sugar intake, whether in regard to day-to-day consumption or around holidays and special occasions where food, drinks and desserts are focal points. But who do people really trust when it comes to information about the health effects of sugar and sweeteners? And are people more likely to consume foods and beverages that contain certain sweeteners over others? In addition to seeking the answers to these questions, this survey aimed to explore which information sources and labels are the most influential when buying sweet foods and beverages, how people use Total or Added Sugars information in making their purchasing decisions, and how the perceptions and behaviors of parents and caregivers of those under 18 may or may not differ from those without children in their care.
The International Food Information Council (IFIC) commissioned an online research survey with consumers based in the US to measure knowledge, attitudes, and dietary sweeteners. One thousand adults aged 18+ years completed the survey from April 9-14, 2021, and responses were weighted to ensure proportional results.
Key findings include:
- Information from the ingredients list and Nutrition Facts label on food packaging are more influential than on-package claims when purchasing sweet foods and beverages.
- When it comes to information about the health effects of sugar and low-calorie sweeteners, most people trust their own health care provider and distrust bloggers and influencers without a medical or nutrition degree.
- Out of foods and beverages that contain caloric sweeteners, low-calorie sweeteners and sugar alcohols, people are more likely to consume foods and beverages with caloric sweeteners, with honey being the most appealing option.
- Half of parents and caregivers of children report a high level of monitoring their youngest child’s sugar intake, with those caring for younger children more likely to closely monitor intake than those with older kids.
- Nearly three in ten prioritize the Total Sugars information on the Nutrition Facts label, while 18% turn to Added Sugars information.