As consumer demand for low-sugar products continues to rise, formulators are re-evaluating the ingredients traditionally used to reduce sugar—especially polyols. While effective in lowering sugar content, polyols are often associated with digestive discomfort and can present challenges in taste, texture, and overall formulation balance.
This has led to increased interest in alternative sugar reduction ingredients that offer improved tolerance and broader functionality. Today’s formulators are prioritizing solutions that not only reduce sugar, but also contribute to product performance—such as enhancing mouthfeel, maintaining structure, and supporting clean label positioning.
Fiber-based ingredients, particularly soluble fibers like resistant dextrins, are gaining traction for their ability to deliver multiple benefits within a single input. These ingredients are typically low glycemic, neutral in taste, and well-suited for a variety of applications, including bars, powders, and functional foods.
From a formulation standpoint, ingredients like FiberSMART® offer a wide range of practical advantages. It is available in both conventional and organic formats, derived from tapioca or non-GMO corn, and aligns with clean label expectations, including vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO certifications. It is water-soluble, low glycemic, and delivers greater than 90% dietary fiber, while also supporting sugar reduction, texture improvement, and bulking functionality. Its versatility allows for use across bars, powders, gummies, beverages, dairy applications, baked goods, and stick packs.
Ingredients like FiberSMART® are being explored for their versatility in formulation. Derived from tapioca or non-GMO corn, FiberSMART® provides a high level of dietary fiber while maintaining a clean sensory profile, making it easier to incorporate into modern product development strategies.
As formulation priorities evolve, the shift away from single-function ingredients toward multifunctional systems continues to shape the future of sugar reduction.
To learn more about FiberSMART® and to request a sample click here.