“Sugar reduction guidelines require scientific response,” says Leatherhead

Reformulation of food products is a common response to health-related issues. However, in the case of sugar reduction, this is not straightforward.

Depending on the properties of the product in question, sugar can contribute much more than taste. It has preservation qualities, so plays a role in the shelf-life of a product. It also impacts texture, aeration, fermentation (for products containing yeast), bulk and visual appeal. Food manufacturers need to consider interactions between ingredients in a recipe to understand how sugar reduction or replacement will affect the finished product.

A scientific approach known as ‘blueprinting’ is an effective way to address these complex challenges, says Leatherhead Food Research’s head of microscopy Professor Kathy Groves.

“Blueprinting creates a technical map of a product,” Groves explains. “It considers both the sensory and scientific attributes that explain its profile, drawing on microscopy, microbiology and rheology. This enables objective analysis of properties such as ‘crunch’, ‘creaminess’, ‘lightness’ or ‘smoothness’. Understanding the science that underpins these attributes facilitates more intelligent and efficient product development, with reduced risk.”

The PHE guidelines refer to the use of sweeteners approved by the European Food Safety Authority as an alternative to sugar. There are many sugar replacement options available, both natural and artificial. However, food manufacturers need to be mindful that their use does not necessarily reduce overall calories. Sugar alternatives – broadly classified as bulk sweeteners or intense sweeteners – can reduce calorie count, but they are considered additives, so compromise clean label classification. Blueprinting provides a scientific framework for testing various approaches to the reduction or replacement of sugar, assessing how they impact attributes such as calorie count, sensory characteristics and shelf-life.

Leatherhead’s blueprinting services are available to Leatherhead members and non-members. For more information email: [email protected]