Sweeteners
Does sucralose spike blood sugar? Are low- and no-calorie sweeteners plant-based? Questions and conflicting information about sweeteners seem to be reaching new heights, so we’ve highlighted key facts and rounded up resources for your use in the IFIC Sweeteners Toolkit.
Quick Links
Key Messages
Use these science-backed key messages to confidently answer questions and guide conversations about sweeteners.
- What are low- and no-calorie sweeteners? Low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) are sugar substitutes that provide the sweet taste of sugar with few or no calories. Common LNCS include sucralose, stevia and monk fruit. They are non-nutritive and do not spike blood sugar, so these low carb sweeteners and low glycemic sweeteners are frequently used in diets to help manage blood sugar and reduce calorie intake.[1]
- What are sugar alcohols? Sugar alcohols – such as erythritol, xylitol and sorbitol – are a type of nutritive sweetener that offer fewer calories than sugar. While they do contain some carbohydrates, many sugar alcohols have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels, especially when consumed in moderate amounts. This makes them a useful option for people seeking low glycemic sweetener alternatives to traditional sugar.[2]
Research
Catch up on the latest shifts in consumer behavior around sweeteners – from habits and health motivations to knowledge gaps – to help guide meaningful conversations and education.
IFIC Spotlight Survey: Americans’ Perceptions Of Sweetness In Their Diets
Learn More2024 IFIC Food & Health Survey
Learn MoreIFIC Spotlight Survey: Americans’ Perceptions Of Sweeteners In Foods & Beverages
Learn MoreIFIC Spotlight Survey: Public Perceptions of Dietary Sweeteners
Learn MoreIFIC Spotlight Survey: Perceptions & Use Of Dietary Sweeteners In 2021
Learn MoreResources
Over the years, IFIC has tracked consumer attitudes, behaviors and perceptions about low- and no-calorie sweeteners. Explore our resources on the landscape, opportunities and challenges.
Webinars
Sharpen your science communication skills with CPE-eligible IFIC Expert Webinars. All feature expert-backed strategies for translating nutrition and health science clearly and confidently.
Downloads to Share
Find ready-to-use resources to help support your science communication. These fact sheets and one-pagers make it easier to share credible, science-based information on food and health.
Aspartame Fact Sheet – Consumers
Aspartame Fact Sheet – Health Professionals
Monk Fruit Fact Sheet – Consumers
Monk Fruit Fact Sheet – Health Professionals
Stevia Fact Sheet – Consumers
Stevia Fact Sheet – Health Professionals
In the News
The sweetener debate continues to gain attention. Check out recent media stories where IFIC experts help separate science from speculation on sugar alternatives.
- Everyday Heatlh Can Artificial Sweeteners Help With Weight Loss?
- Sound Bites Podcast Consumer Insights: What’s the Scoop on Snacking, Sodium u0026amp; Sweeteners? – Milton Stokes