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Sweeteners are food additive substances that give a sweet taste to foods but their use in oenological practices is forbidden. Making use of the capabilities of liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, a method for wine analysis was developed and validated for the detection and quantitation of some of the most widely used sweeteners: aspartame, potassium acesulfame, sodium cyclamate, saccharin, sucralose and stevioside. A matrix-matched calibration was used for all compounds obtaining a linear concentration range from 50 μg/L to 1000 μg/L. The limit of detection ranged from 0.002 mg/L to 0.014 mg/L, and the limit of quantification varied between 0.005 mg/L and 0.048 mg/L. Precision and recovery were assessed for 50 μg/L, 250 μg/L and 1000 μg/L with repeatability and intermediate precision values from 0.6% to 21.6% and 2.7% to 26.4% respectively, and recoveries ranging from 60% to 126%. These results were achieved using minimal sample preparation with a fast and high throughput method that is applicable to a wide range of wine matrices.

Sweeteners play a vital role in the food industry serving either as preservative or as addition to consumables. The high intake of sweetener brought about production of artificially synthesized sweetener which has, in turn, given a reason of concern for health on a long term. Cassava is one of the mostly cultivated crops in Nigeria with cassava possessing the highest level of starch compared to other crops. This research explores the abundance of cassava, converting its starch into sweetener (glucose). An extraction test rig was developed as part of the study to extract sweetener from cassava. A 2x3x3 factorial experiment was used to carry out the experiment and the factors considered were cassava varieties (Manihot dulcis and Manihot palmatal), delay period (15, 30 and 45 minutes) and quantity of starch (1, 2 and 4 kg). The SPSS 20.0 was used to carry out the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) for the measured parameters. The sugar concentration analysis carried out on the cassava sweetener (Manihot dulcis) and (Manihot palmatal), gave values 13.02 and 17.57 mg/mL, respectively which were in line with the established cassava sweetener with value of 12.43 mg/mL. The ANOVA showed the interactive effect of cassava variety, delay period and quantity of starch on the nutritional composition of the sweetener on a 5% confidence level. The result revealed the highest extraction efficiency of which full hydrolysis for cassava variety (Manihot palmatal), 45minutes delay period and 2 kg quantity of starch compared with cassava variety (Manihot dulcis) 45 minutes delay period and 2 kg quantity of starch that gave the extraction efficiency of 76.93% and 78.03%, respectively. In nutritional value and sugar concentration comparison, the cassava sweetener obtained gave values closer to the established cassava sweetener and, as such, is a proper replacement for artificial sweetener.

D-Allulose, a generally regarded as safe (GRAS) sugar, is rare in nature. It is among the most promising sweeteners for future use due to its low caloric content, sucrose-like taste, and unique functions. D-Allulose has many physiological effects, such as antiobesity, antihyperglycemia, antidiabetes, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects. Therefore, D-allulose has important application value in the food, pharmaceutical, and healthcare industries. However, the high cost of D-allulose production limits its large-scale application. Currently, biotransformation is very attractive for D-allulose synthesis, with the two main methods of biosynthesis being the Izumoring strategy and the DHAP-dependent aldolase strategy. This article reviews recent advances regarding the physiological functions and biosynthesis of D-allulose. In addition, future perspectives on the production of D-allulose are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frozen yogurt is known as ice cream with some properties of yogurt. Frozen yogurts are a rich source of sucrose levels between 15% and 28% of total ingredients. Consumers suffering from lactose intolerance and metabolic syndrome are looking for sugar-free products. The current study investigates the sugar replacements by using sweeteners (stevia, sucralose and sorbitol) on physicochemical, microbiological, microstructural and sensory characteristics of probiotic-frozen yogurt. Four different treatments of probiotic-frozen yogurts were studied (control probiotic-frozen yogurt with sucrose (F1), probiotic-frozen yogurt with stevia (F2), probiotic-frozen yogurt with sucralose (F3) and probiotic-frozen yogurt with sorbitol (F4)). The chemical properties were not significantly present p > 0.05) during storage in all treatments. In the F1 treatment, sucrose value was higher (14.87%) and not detected in the F2, F3 and F4 treatments. The highest values of overrun, hardness and viscosity (p < 0.05) were detected in the F2, F3 and F3 samples, but the lowest value was detected in the F1 treatment. Total Str. thermophilus and Lb. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus counts were gradually decreased (p < 0.05) during storage periods. At 1 day, the Bifidobacteria counts ranged from 7.56 to 7.60 log10 CFU g−1 in all groups and gradually decreased during storage, but these bacterial counts remained viable (>6.00 log10 CFU g−1) during storage periods up to 60 d. During storage periods, the highest scores of total acceptability were detected in the F3, F4 and F2 treatments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs of all probiotic-frozen yogurt treatments illustrated that the microstructures showed a difference with a fine network, size pores and structure between the frozen yogurt with sweeteners (F2, F3 and F3) and control frozen yogurt (F1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This perspective considers evidence of a common academic bias against low-energy sweeteners (LES). The core proposition is that this bias is manifested in research and reporting focused on generating and placing a negative spin on LES, largely through selective citation, interpretation and reporting. The evidence centres on three inter-related points, which together may generate a misleading impression of the balance of evidence: (1) basic and mechanistic research on LES perpetuates "explanations" for unsubstantiated adverse effects of LES; (2) the literature on LES—particularly narrative reviews and commentaries—continually reprises hypotheses of adverse effects without acknowledging where these hypotheses have been rigorously tested and rejected; and (3) negative interpretations of the effects of LES largely rely upon selectively emphasising lower-quality research whilst ignoring or dismissing higher-quality evidence. The expert community should consider these issues in assuring scientific integrity and balance in the academic discourse on LES, and how this is translated into messages for public health and consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we modeled the pathways in the association of socioeconomic status, frequency of added sugar consumption, and obesity in mother‐child dyads with chronic oral disease burden in early childhood using structural equation modeling. A population‐based study was conducted on preschoolers from public daycare centers in São Luís, Brazil (n = 674) and their mothers. Chronic oral disease burden in early childhood was a latent variable, representing the shared variance of the following indicators: visible plaque index, gingivitis, and dental caries. A higher consumption frequency of added sugars by children [standardized regression coefficient (SC) = 0.219] explained the chronic oral disease burden. A higher consumption frequency of added sugars by mothers was associated with greater consumption of sugar by children (SC = 0.236), and indirectly with a greater chronic oral disease burden (SC = 0.052). Maternal obesity was associated with obesity in the offspring (SC = 0.130). The chronic oral disease burden is already present in early childhood and can be explained by the higher consumption of added sugars by the mother‐child dyad. Approaches to preventing chronic oral diseases should focus on common risk factors, start early in life, and promote family involvement in this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-two male Wistar albino rats were chosen to test the possible protective role of antioxidants of the edible seaweed Sargassum vulgare as a functional food additive to alleviate oxidative stress and toxicity associated with consumption of the artificial sweetener 'aspartame (ASP)'. Biochemical and spleen histopathological analyses of the orally ASP-administrated rats, at a dose of 500 mg/kg for one week daily, showed different apoptotic and inflammatory patterns. Rats treated with ASP and then supplemented orally with the S. vulgare-MeOH extract, at a dose of 150 mg/kg for three consecutive weeks daily, showed significant positive reactions in all investigated assays related to ASP consumption. The protective and immune-stimulant efficacy of S. vulgare-MeOH extract, inferred from combating oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation, modulating the low levels of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4, attenuating the elevated levels of apoptotic CASP-3 and inflammatory biomarkers TNF-α and IL-6, as well as heat shock proteins (Hsp70), can be most likely ascribed to the synergistic effect of its potent antioxidant phenolics (mainly gallic, ferulic, salicylic, and chlorogenic, and p-coumaric acids) and flavonoids (rutin, kaempferol, and hesperidin). Mechanism of action of these natural antioxidants was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

D-allulose has received considerable attention as an alternative functional sugar for its zero caloric value with 70% relative sweetness compared to D-sucrose. Despite its strong potential as an alternative sweetener, recent industrial productions rely on a high-cost enzymatic method. Here, we advanced whole-cell conversion at high temperatures using Corynebacterium glutamicum expressing D-allulose 3-epimerase (DAE). By varying the reaction temperature from 25°C to 70°C, D-allulose conversion could reach the reaction equilibrium at high temperatures. The C. glutamicum showed superior reusability of cells at 60°C compared to Escherichia coli. We simplified the cell growth media and whole-cell conversion reaction solution. Clostridium hylemonae DAE (ChDAE) showed the highest thermostability and reusability among various DAE candidates. Finally, the ChDAE expression under the synthetic 2X-cT-T5 promoter could reduce the reaction time by 25%. Our result showed that 120 g/L of D-allulose can be produced from 400 g/L of D-fructose by reusable whole-cell conversion at 55°C in 1.5 h. This study can be highly applicable in industrial economic production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS‐55) was used in place of sucrose in the formulation of chocolate syrup. HFCS‐55 is an alternative sweetener used extensively in beverage industry due to convenient application and economic benefits. Four substitutions (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) were taken into account. For evaluating the effects of this substitution, physicochemical, rheological, and sensory properties of samples were analyzed. In the case of using HFCS‐55, the water activity of samples was decreased. Rheological analysis indicated that sucrose replacement up to 75% at temperature of 25°C and up to 50% at temperature of 4°C does not have a significant effect on the yield stress of samples. But, at higher sucrose replacements, the yield stress of samples was increased. Sensory analysis showed that HFCS‐55 has the potential to be used in place of sugar in chocolate syrup formulation. Novelty impact statement: HFCS‐55 is an attractive sweetener due to its advantages over other nutritive sweeteners. Therefore, in the current study, it was successfully used in place of sucrose in the formulation of chocolate syrup with a focus on the physicochemical and sensorial properties of the final product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strawberry is highly delicate and perishable fruit prone to microbial spoilage. To address these issues, secondary product(s) using strawberry pulp was prepared by adding sweetener (jaggery or sucrose) and anti-browning agent (citrate) to reduce the extent of drying induced sourness and discoloration, respectively. Subsequently, these products were LDPE packed and radiation processed (≤ 5 kGy) to ensure microbiological safety during ambient temperature storage. Physical, biochemical, functional (antioxidant and antimutagenic) and organoleptic properties (including flavor compounds) were found to be either retained or enhanced compared to dehydrated strawberry pulp. The product termed as dehydrated strawberry roll having jaggery and citrate (DSRJ) was found to be more acceptable than that having sucrose and citrate (DSRS) till 5 months. Scanning electron microscopy indicated better surface quality of DSRJ than DSRS. Electrochemical property when analyzed using cyclic voltammetry displayed strong correlation to radical scavenging antioxidant assays with marginal storage associated shift in the peak potential. GC–MS analysis indicated retention of most of the flavor compounds in DSRJ during storage. Thus, DSRJ, a value-added product could provide a solution to control post-harvest losses of the fruit by processing to a more stable form and ensuring availability beyond the season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of pediatric-specific dose forms is particularly difficult due to a variety of factors relating to pediatric population differences from adult populations. The buccal dosage form is considered a good alternative to oral dosage form if the latter cannot be used in pediatric patients. Both oral and buccal dosage formulations uphold great application qualities for pediatric patients. This review sheds light on both oral and buccal, as they are the most convenient dosage forms for pediatrics. The use of adult drugs to treat children is a legislation concern, as it may result in incorrect dose, safety, and efficacy. The Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA) and the Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA) are two key pieces of legislation that encourage and regulate pediatric medication research. Both contribute to a well-balanced approach to emphasizing critical safety and efficacy warnings for the of medications within pediatric populations. These contributions are what enable companies to continue making significant investments in pediatric drug developments. Despite the importance of investigating medicines for children, there is still a demand for pediatric-specific formulations and dosage forms. Many formulations and dosage forms can be designed, among which the buccal drug delivery seems a good modality for pediatric-friendly dosage forms. The main issues associated with these pediatric dosage forms development, particularly clinical and physiological factors, are discussed in this review. In addition, formulation developments and regulatory expectations are highlighted. In turn, suggestions are made to potentially improve future pediatric formulation development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the recent increase in the demand for sugar in Ethiopia, and the ways in which the distribution and sale of sugar have been manipulated for political gain after the country's demand outstripped production and supply. It also examines how agro-industrial expansion programs have resulted in land dispossession and the resettlement of smallholder farmers in the southern Ethiopian lowlands who were promised better living standards through modernization. The results of this study indicate that the expansion of Ethiopian sugar projects took place not only because of the increased demand for sugar in the country, but also because of the global political economy that shapes the nature of development projects in Global South. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The demands for better‐tasting alternative sweeteners have driven efforts to improve the sensory properties of rebaudioside A (Reb‐A), such as glycosylation and blending with bulk sweeteners. This study attempted to (i) investigate the sensory profiles of a novel sweetener, glycosyl rebaudioside A (gReb‐A), and its 1:1 mixtures with erythritol or maltitol, and (ii) compare between the sensory characteristics in an aqueous solution and lemonade. RESULTS: The concentrations of the sweeteners were prepared to match the sweetness intensity of a 7% (w/v) sucrose solution using relative sweetness values determined using the two‐alternative forced‐choice test. Eight trained panelists identified sensory profiles of the sweeteners in an aqueous solution and lemonade using a descriptive analysis protocol. gReb‐A had significantly less bitterness and lingering sweetness than Reb‐A did, eliciting a sensory profile similar to that of sucrose. The mixture of gReb‐A and erythritol was not sensorially differentiated from the sucrose in the aqueous solution. Blending with maltitol significantly enhanced the sweetness and suppressed the bitterness of gReb‐A. gReb‐A and its binary mixtures were perceived as more similar to sucrose in the lemonade than in solution. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that glycosylation and blending with erythritol and maltitol gave a more sucrose‐like sweetness profile in the aqueous solution and lemonade. The results of the study can be used to develop adequate sugar substitutes for acidic beverages. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence suggests that sweetened beverage taxes reduce taxed beverage purchases, but few studies have used individual-level data to assess whether these taxes affect purchases of nontaxed foods, beverages, and alcohol. Additionally, research has not examined whether sweetened beverage taxes influence restaurant purchases.Objectives: We assessed changes in individuals' purchases of taxed beverage types; low-calorie/low-added-sugar nontaxed beverages; high-calorie/high-added-sugar nontaxed beverages, foods, and alcohol; and beverages from restaurants following implementation of the 1.5 cent-per-ounce Philadelphia sweetened beverage tax.Methods: A longitudinal cohort of adult sugar-sweetened beverage consumers in Philadelphia (n = 306; 67% female; mean age: 43.9 years) and Baltimore (n = 297; comparison city without a beverage tax; 58% female; mean age: 41.7 years) submitted all food and beverage receipts during 2-week periods at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months posttax. Difference-in-differences analyses compared changes in purchases from pre- to posttax in Philadelphia to changes in Baltimore.Results: Purchases of taxed juice drinks [ratio of incidence rate ratios (RIRR) = 0.62; 95% CI, 0.42-0.91], but not other taxed beverage types, decreased in Philadelphia compared to Baltimore following the tax. Analyses did not find changes in purchases of low-calorie/low-added-sugar nontaxed beverages, such as water or milk. Additionally, analyses did not find increases in purchases of most high-calorie/high-added-sugar nontaxed products, including alcohol, juice, candy, sweet snacks, salty snacks, and desserts. Purchases of beverage concentrates increased in Philadelphia (RIRR = 2.22; 95% CI, 1.39-3.54).Conclusions: In this difference-in-differences analysis, the Philadelphia beverage tax was associated with reduced purchases of taxed juice drinks. Purchases of beverage concentrates increased after the tax, but no increases were observed for other high-calorie/high-added-sugar nontaxed foods, beverages, or alcohol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As calorie-consciousness becomes a worldwide phenomenon, demand for low-calorie sweeteners is increasing. Compared to other sugars, the reduced calorific value of mannitol (1.6 kilocalories per gram) finds its application as a sweetener in low-calorie foods. The present study was conducted to develop low-calorie yoghurt by adding lactic acid bacteria (LAB) having significant mannitol production potential. Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides IMAU:11666 was incorporated to standard yoghurt culture as adjunct culture. As mannitol is a food-grade sweetener with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endorsement, the newly identified LAB strain can be used to develop low-calorie dairy products with beneficial effects. Side effects of other artificial sweeteners can also be reduced. Significantly high (p≤0.05) mannitol content was observed in functional yoghurt samples T1 (12.27 ± 0.18 g/l) and T2 (14.13 ± 0.30 g/l) with Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides when compared to control samples. The calorific value obtained for yoghurt samples viz., C1, C2, T1, and T2 (86, 95, 98, and 92 kcal/100g, respectively) was less than control yoghurt C (99 kcal/100 gm). Microbial and chemical quality parameters of the functional yoghurt were in the safe and acceptable zone. On sensory evaluation of yoghurt samples, significantly higher overall and flavor scores were observed for sample T2 with Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral, quick response, and on demand, also known as a spontaneous oral treatment for erectile dysfunction, is highly needed by both patients and physicians. Vardenafil is selective (fewer side effects) and more effective in difficult-to-treat conditions than sildenafil. This study aims at fostering the dual objectives of using biomolecules such as artificial sweetening agents to solubilize and mask the bitterness of vardenafil loaded on biodegradable polymeric materials (PVA, MC, SA, and PVP K30) to fabricate oral, fast-dissolving films (vardenafil ODFs) in the mouth without the need for water to ingest the dosage form. Furthermore, coprecipitated-dispersed mixtures of vardenafil and three sweeteners (sorbitol, acesulfame K, and sucralose) were prepared and characterized using FTIR, DSC, and solubility studies. Moreover, eight different vardenafil ODFs were prepared using the solvent-casting method. Modified gustatory sensation test, in vitro disintegration, and release studies were performed. In addition, the optimized ODF (F8) was compared with the commercial film-coated tablets pharmacokinetically (relative bioavailability, onset, and duration of actions were estimated). The results indicated that the three sweetening agents had comparable solubilizing capacity. However, both sucralose- and acesulfame K-based ODFs have a more enhanced sweet and palatable taste than sorbitol-sweetened ODF. The SA- and PVP K30-based ODFs showed significantly faster disintegration times and release rates than MC. In conclusion, PVA has good film-forming properties, but a higher ratio of PVA adversely affected the disintegration and release characteristics. The % relative bioavailability for ODF was 126.5%, with a superior absorption rate constant (Ka) of 1.2-fold. The Cmax and estimated Tmax were compared to conventional film-coated tablets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold pressing of sapodilla fruit pulp for juice extraction is generally difficult and yields an inferior quality of juice due to fruit tissue rigidity and its granular pulpy nature which necessitates the enzyme combination for tissue hydrolysis. A central composite design was used to optimize the sapodilla tissue hydrolysis conditions like pectinase concentration (T1 0.1%–0.2%), cellulase concentration (T2 0.05%–0.1%), incubation temperature (T3 40–50°C), and incubation period (T4 90–150 min). The responses studied were juice yield, viscosity, total soluble solid, L‐value, clarity, total phenol content, and overall acceptability. Regression analysis fitted to a second‐order quadratic model for each response was a significant (p <.05) function of hydrolysis. The optimized level of pectinase concentration, cellulase concentration, incubation temperature, and period was 0.125%, 0.063%, 42.50°C, and 112.20 min, respectively. The validity of the model was confirmed by the closeness of experimental values (juice yield 61.51 ± 0.50%, viscosity 2.88 ± 0.02 cps, TSS 18.66 ± 0.06 °Brix, L‐value 35.94 ± 0.52, clarity (abs) 1.91 ± 0.03, TPC 1.588 ± 0.02 mg GAE/100 ml, and OA 7.23 ± 0.25) with predicted values. Practical applications: Various benefits of enzymatic hydrolysis of sapodilla tissue for juice extraction have been found over conventional methods (cold and hot press). It overcomes the challenges of extractability and pressability. It also improves the functional (total phenolic content), physical (soluble solid, color, clarity, and viscosity), and sensory characteristics (overall acceptability) of juice. Higher juice yield and total phenolic content suggest that enzymatic hydrolysis of sapodilla could promote the juice industry for the production of quality juice and healthy fruit‐based drinks too. The reduced processing time in enzymatic hydrolysis as compared with that in traditional method and high TSS in extracted sapodilla juice will further offer the advantages of a reduced burden on cane sugar for sweetening purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Untreated leaves (UL) and leaves pretreated with ethanol (PL) of the Stevia UEM‐13 variety were extracted by a percolation method using boiling water as solvent (1/40). Five extractive cycles were performed for each starting material. The total recovery of sweeteners was 91.64% for UL and 93.80% for PL. In the first extractive cycle the value of insoluble impurities was estimated at 55.44% for UL and 63.12% for PL, therefore the purity levels of the extracts from the first cycle could, respectively, be increased from 25.68% to 81.12% and from 24.14% to 87.26% by employing an additional microfiltration step. It was extracted enough sweeteners from 5 g of both Stevia leaves to sweeten a liter of coffee, and preliminary sensory tests showed that, unlike the coffee prepared with UL, the coffee prepared with pretreated leaves did not have an unpleasant herbaceous taste. Novelty impact statement: A simple conventional extraction method by semicontinuous percolation with boiling water as solvent, which allows steviol glycoside recovery levels above 90%;Obtaining minimally processed extracts that can be easily purified by membrane separation methods, without the use of flocculation and carbonation agents;Development of a conventional extraction method that allows obtaining minimally processed extracts, without herbaceous flavor, from Stevia leaves pretreated with ethanol, which can be used directly as a sweetener in beverages and foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: Scientific evidence related to environmental exposures continues to mount. Tools such as evidence mapping support decision making, but can be resource- and time-intensive. We explored "rapid evidence mapping" to efficiently map scientific evidence using rigorous and transparent methodologies. We undertook a proof-of-concept case study on the topic of low-calorie sweeteners. Our intent was to conduct a traditional evidence map based on the same evidence base from a prior rapid evidence map case study to compare approaches, findings, and conclusions. We searched the literature, screened full text of studies, manually tagged and categorized articles, and created visualizations to map the evidence. Results: We conducted full-text screening of studies from the prior rapid evidence map and identified 255 relevant studies. Our findings corroborated those of the rapid evidence map, identifying most studies as short-term conducted in healthy individuals studying outcomes of appetite, energy sensing and body weight. We identified gaps in research areas related to outcomes of appetite and dietary intake, particularly in study populations with diabetes. Our findings illustrate the promise of rapid evidence mapping as a rigorous approach that can summarize scientific evidence, identify knowledge gaps, and identify areas for a future systematic review in a time-efficient manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Rare sugars are monosaccharides and disaccharides (found in small quantities in nature) that have slight differences in their chemical structure compared with traditional sugars. Little is known about their unique physiological and cardiometabolic effects in humans. Objective The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic review and synthesis of controlled intervention studies of rare sugars in humans, using PRISMA guidelines. Data Sources MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched through October 1, 2020. Studies included both post-prandial (acute) and longer-term (≥1 week duration) human feeding studies that examined the effect of rare sugars (including allulose, arabinose, tagatose, trehalose, and isomaltulose) on cardiometabolic and physiological risk factors. Data extraction In all, 50 studies in humans focusing on the 5 selected rare sugars were found. A narrative synthesis of the selected literature was conducted, without formal quality assessment or quantitative synthesis. Data synthesis The narrative summary included the food source of each rare sugar, its effect in humans, and the possible mechanism of effect. Overall, these rare sugars were found to offer both short- and long-term benefits for glycemic control and weight loss, with effects differing between healthy individuals, overweight/obese individuals, and those with type 2 diabetes. Most studies were of small size and there was a lack of large randomized controlled trials that could confirm the beneficial effects of these rare sugars. Conclusion Rare sugars could offer an opportunity for commercialization as an alternative sweetener, especially for those who are at high cardiometabolic risk. Systematic Review Registration OSF registration no. 10.17605/OSF.IO/FW43D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/objectives: Women with gestational diabetes (GDM) are advised to adapt a low glycaemic index (GI) diet, which may impact consumption of low-calorie sweeteners (LCS). LCS are increasingly popular as they add sweetness without contributing calories. This study aims to investigate the reported intakes of LCS-containing foods in women during pregnancy.Subjects/methods: Pregnant women recruited for the ROLO study were included in this analysis (n = 571). Women were randomised to receive either an intervention of low-GI dietary advice or usual antenatal care. Women completed a 3-day food diary in each trimester. Nine LCS-containing food groups were identified, and the quantity (g/day) consumed was calculated.Results: One-third of all pregnant women consumed LCS across each trimester of pregnancy. Of those in the intervention group who were LCS consumers in trimester 1, 71.6% were consumers in trimester 2, and 54.1% remained consumers in trimester 3. In the control group, less women remained consumers in trimester 2 and 3 at 58.1% and 41.9%, respectively. In trimester 2, following the dietary intervention, the proportion of LCS consumers in the intervention group was significantly higher than the proportion of consumers who were in the control group (p < 0.001). The most commonly consumed food groups were low-calorie fruit drinks, diet-cola drinks, and low-calorie yoghurts.Conclusions: One-third of pregnant women consumed LCS. The proportion of LCS consumers increased in the intervention group compared to the control group. Further research is needed to determine exposure levels to individual LCS, and the effect of prenatal exposure to LCS on maternal and child health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relative sweetness (RS) of natural alternative sweeteners is influenced by their distinct flavors and temporal profiles but also by the determination method. This study investigated the reported RS of natural alternative sweeteners using two methods—the two‐alternative forced‐choice (2‐AFC) test and generalized labeled magnitude scale (g‐LMS). The 2‐AFC test and g‐LMS were applied to determine the RS of rebaudioside A, luo han guo extract, and xylo‐oligosaccharide to 5% sucrose. The RS values were verified by comparison to those obtained from descriptive analysis (DA). The 2‐AFC test produced RS values more similar to those of the DA, whereas the g‐LMS yielded much higher RS values. The results suggest that the 2‐AFC test, which compares the integrated perception of samples directly to that of a reference, yields a more accurate RS value than the g‐LMS, which asks panelists to rate sweetness separately from other sensations that might influence perception. Practical applications: Replacing sugar with alternative sweeteners is one sugar reduction strategy widely used in the food industry. It is important to accurately identify RS values because an accurate replacement ratio based on the RS is necessary for successful sugar replacement that does not change the original sensory profile. However, the unique sensory characteristics and temporal profiles of natural alternative sweeteners can make it difficult to determine RS values accurately. This study compared the performances of the 2‐AFC test and g‐LMS, which use different evaluation strategies, to provide researchers with insights on the efficacy of the methods. It is expected that the outcomes of this study will aid in the research and development of sugar replacement strategies in both academia and industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we found the addition of sorbitol could improve the thermostability of α‐l‐rhamnosidase from Aspergillus niger. When α‐l‐rhamnosidase with sorbitol was heat‐treated at 60°C, 65°C, and 70°C, the half‐life t1/2 increased by 28‐, 18‐, and 9‐fold, respectively. Inactivation thermodynamic analysis showed that both Ea and ΔG≠ of α‐l‐rhamnosidase increased. Through the response surface methodology (RSM) analysis, the higher hesperidin conversion (63.26%) by α‐l‐rhamnosidase was attained with 0.7 M sorbitol at 60°C and pH 4.5 for 10 min. Furthermore, hesperidin could be completely hydrolyzed after 10 hr of reaction. Overall, the results indicated that the addition of sorbitol improved the thermostability of α‐l‐rhamnosidase and increased the enzymatic conversion of hesperidin to hesperetin‐7‐O‐glucoside (HMG). It also provided a simple and efficient way to increase enzymatic conversion of other valuable flavonoid monomers due to the broad substrate specificities of α‐l‐rhamnosidase from A. niger. Practical applications: Hesperetin‐7‐O‐glucoside (HMG), a derhamnosylation product of hesperidin, is considered as a synthetic precursor for novel and efficient sweeteners and is important in food, functional food, and nutraceutical industries. Compared to chemical hydrolysis methods, the enzymatic conversion of hesperidin is milder and has the advantages of high specificity. Adding sorbitol can improve the thermostability of α‐l‐rhamnosidase and increase the enzyme efficacy against hesperidin. This study gave more evidence that adding sorbitol could improve the thermostability of enzymes and provide a better choice for improving biotransformation potency of enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examined the intakes of six low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) (acesulfame-K, aspartame, cyclamate, saccharin, steviol glycosides, and sucralose) by the Brazilian population using an added sugar substitution approach. Detailed exposure modelling requires the use of proprietary concentration data, which can be difficult to obtain. Two exposure models were conducted using nationally representative food consumption data. The first model ('per person') estimated added sugar intakes on an individual person basis, replacing 50% of added sugar intakes >10% total energy with each LNCS considering sucrose sweetness equivalence. The second model ('per food') replaced 50% of the added sugar content in foods and beverages with each LNCS, incorporating sucrose sweetness equivalence and Brazilian tonnage data. Both models predicted that intakes would be below the JECFA ADI for five of the six LNCS in all population groups examined (≥10 years) for average and heavy consumers. For cyclamate, exceedance of the ADI was determined for all age groups amongst heavy consumers in the 'per person' model, while estimated intakes in the 'per food' model were below or reached the ADI for the cohort. Additional research is needed for younger age groups to confirm whether these findings are applicable to the entire Brazilian population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social Impact Statement Plants are rich sources of drugs and other high‐value chemicals that are used by humans. Many of the plant species that produce important molecules grow in remote locations and have extensive histories of indigenous use. Global concerns about sustainable supply have in some cases led to the development of alternative methods for production using biotechnological approaches. Consideration of responsible stewardship and use of the world's plants and associated traditional knowledge for the greater human good are at the heart of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the recently implemented Nagoya Protocol. The development of fora that enable open discussion and exploration of issues relating to these aspects will be critical in endeavors to protect and preserve both the environment and present and future generations. Summary Here, we investigate the application of cross‐disciplinary approaches to explore societal perceptions of plants and their uses, focusing on high‐value chemicals. The Global Garden project engages the public, researchers, and regulators in day‐long workshops that combine science, poetry, and visual arts practice to foster participants’ skill in imagining and re‐imagining relationships between high‐value plant products, biotechnology, and social and ethical aspects of these. The project represents an intervention into discussions of science communications and public engagement, addressing the uses and benefits of arts‐based approaches to foster imaginative engagement with plant science. The workshop reported here began with real plant case studies and a discussion of the aims of scientists using them. Participants were invited to respond to the issues of relationships among plants, chemicals, and people raised by the case studies through poetry and visual artwork. The poems and artwork that were produced show variation in the participants’ imaginings of plant science. They present distinctive visions of research and innovation and of the associated ethical and social implications. This type of forum, based on creative immersion, opens up opportunities for engaging with and exploring complex relations between plant biotechnology, society, and ethics. This article offers a reflection on the uses, challenges, and implications of arts‐based approaches to research communications and public engagement that disrupts traditional knowledge transfer structures. In doing so, we frame the project within science communication pedagogies and consider public engagement a form of pedagogy.

People suffering from diabetes or being overweight must severely reduce their sugar use, often seeking food with sweeteners. Often, sugar is replaced by non-nutritious sweeteners in beverages, which also contain several other substances like vitamins, caffeine, amino acids, phenolic compounds and thus increasing the shelf life of the beverages is additionally treated with the addition of preservatives. As the concentration of additives in food (including beverages) is determined by the legislation in force, it is necessary to have an appropriate analytical method for food control. Since artificial sweeteners and preservatives are very different substances, they are determined separately using different HPLC methods. In this work HPLC method combining the advantages of specific (diode array detector, DAD) and universal (evaporative light scattering detector, ELSD) detector was validated and used for simultaneous determination of benzoic acid, sorbic acid, aspartame, acesulfame K, saccharin, sucralose and steviol glycosides in sugar-free beverages. The proposed analytical method showed good linearity, precision, and accuracy. Measured limits of detection (0.6 – 11.8 mg.dm-3 depending on the analyte) were sufficient to analyze 5-times diluted beverage samples. The validated method has been successfully used for the simultaneous analysis of artificial sweeteners and preservatives in beverage samples (energy drinks, ice teas, carbonated drinks). Except for steviol glycosides, the concentration of monitored substances in beverages did not exceed the maximum permitted concentrations given in the valid legislation.

One of the main causes of obesity is the high consumption of products rich in easily absorbed carbohydrates. Sweet products with lower energy value, which sweetness comes from artificial sweeteners are becoming more and more popular. One of the most examined and popular is aspartame. This sweetener is broken down in the human body among others to methanol, which is oxidized to formaldehyde and formic acid, that are toxic to the human body. Furthermore, there is an ongoing discussion about the potential carcinogenicity and the impact of aspartame on the gut microbiota. A literature review was conducted to determine whether aspartame could be considered a safe weight loss aid.European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guidelines indicate that the toxic dose of aspartame in chronic use is 4000 mg per every kilogram of body mass per day. On the other hand, there are studies on rats that indicate that EFSA's position is overly optimistic. However, it should be noted, that so high consumption situations of this sweetener that would allow to approach the recommended daily maximum are extremely rare. The amount of methanol provided by aspartame-sweetened foods also makes it extremely difficult to achieve toxic levels. Aspartame has also been shown not to affect the gut microbiota.What is important from a dietary point of view, study that compared the consumption of "light" drinks with water showed that people on a diet and consuming "light" drinks achieved significantly greater weight reduction (approx. 1.24 kg) compared to people consuming only water. The use of aspartame as a substitute for sugar may help in reducing excess body weight. However, attention should be paid to the inconclusive results regarding the acceptable safe level of consumption of this sweetener.

Sweeteners are widespread primarily in the food industry. An attractive alternative to sugar. Their prevalence was driven primarily by food shortage during the war. The intense sweetener is permitted for consumption by specifying the ratio of ADI. Due to the chemical structure stands out semi-synthetic and synthetic substances. The most common sweeteners are saccharin, acesulfame-K, steviol glycosides, aspartame, xylitol. Sweet taste is guaranteed've been using a minimum amount of their low calorie. The aim of this review was to decribe the most common sweeteners The article emphasizes both advantages and diadvantages of sucrose's substitutes intake.

Objective To establish an analysis method for detecting 9 sweeteners including acesulfame, sodium saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, sucralose, neotame, alitame, stevioside and steviobioside in spirits by using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Methods After the sample was heated by boiling water bath to remove ethanol, it was detected by UPLC-MS/MS. The sweeteners were separated by UPLC with water (containing 10 mmol/L ammonium acetate) -methanol gradient elution in a HSS T3 chromatography column (2.1 mm×100 mm, 1.7 μm), and qualified/quantified by mass spectrometry with electron spray ionization multiple reaction monitoring mode. Results The linearity of the 9 sweeteners in the range was good, and the correlation coefficient was above 0.999. The recovery of the method was 85.2%-102.8%, the relative standard deviation (RSD) was 3.8%-7.3%. The detection limit was 0.3-1.5 μg/kg. Conclusion The method is simple, rapid and reproducible, and can be used for the detection of 9 sweeteners in spirits.

Background and Aims: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an important determinant of cardiometabolic disease development, with excessive sugar intake as one of the key modifiable risk factors. However, evidence on the association between sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB), their replacement by low/no caloric beverages (LNCB), and MetS development is still limited., Methods and Results: Data from participants' of Lifelines (n = 58 220), NQPlus (n = 1094) and Feel4Diabetes (n = 342) were prospectively analysed. Dose-response associations were investigated using restricted cubic spline analyses (Lifelines). Cox proportional hazard regression analysis with robust variance was used to quantify associations between intakes of SSB, fruit juices (FJ) and LNCB and MetS incidence; data were pooled using random-effects models. Associations were adjusted for demographic, lifestyle and other dietary factors. In Lifelines, NQPlus, and Feel4Diabetes, 3853 (7 %), 47 (4 %), and 39 (11 %) participants developed MetS, respectively. Pooled analyses showed that each additional serving of SSB was associated with a 6 % higher risk of MetS (95%CI 1.02-1.10). A J-shaped association was observed for FJ and MetS, with a significant inverse association at moderate intake levels (IPR 0.89, 95 % CI 0.82-0.96). LNCB intake was not associated with MetS (IPR 1.59, 95%CI 0.74-2.43), but findings across studies were inconsistent (I 2 94 %, p-value <0.01). Replacing SSB with FJ or LNCB did not show any associations with MetS incidence., Conclusion: SSB intake was adversely associated with MetS incidence. A J-shaped association was observed between FJ and MetS. For LNCB, results were inconsistent across studies and therefore findings must be interpreted cautiously., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest SSM-M has received recent research funding for epidemiological studies on dairy products and cardiometabolic diseases from the Dutch Dairy Association and the Danish Dairy Research Foundation. JCGH is a member of Dupont/IFF and Mars Scientific Advisory Boards and has received honorariums from the International Sweeteners Association together with AR. JCGH and JAH are also conducting the SWITCH trial funded by the American Beverage Association. JCGH and AR have received an honorarium from Unilever, the International Sweeteners Association, and Nestlé. In the past, EJMF has received an unrestricted grant from Friesland Campina and the European Beer Institute and conducted a study on added sugar and individual sugars partly funded by Kenniscentrum Suiker en Gezondheid (2011). Other authors have no conflicts of interest to be disclosed., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The rapid increase in the worldwide prevalence of obesity and certain non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as: cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes, has been mainly attributed to an excess of sugar consumption. Although the potential benefits of the synergetic use of sweeteners have been known for many years, recent development based on synthesis strategies to produce sucrose-like taste profiles is emerging where biocatalyst approaches may be preferred to produce and supply specific sweetener compounds. From a nutritional standpoint, high-intensity sweeteners have fewer calories than sugars while providing a major sweet potency, placing them in the spotlight as valuable alternatives to sugar. Due to the modern world awareness and incidence of metabolic diseases, both food research and growing markets have focused on two generally regarded as safe (GRAS) groups of compounds: the sweet diterpenoid glycosides present on the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana and, more recently, on the cucurbitane triterpene glycosides present on the fruits of Siraitia grosvenorii . In spite of their flavor advantages, biological benefits, including: antidiabetic, anticancer, and cardiovascular properties, have been elucidated. The present bibliographical review dips into the state-of-the-art of sweeteners and their role in human health as sugar replacements, as well as the biotransformation methods for steviol gylcosides and mogrosides apropos of enzymatic technology to update and locate the discoveries to date in the scientific literature to help boost the continuity of research efforts of the ongoing sweeteners.

The objective of this work was to develop two freeze-dried snacks from blackcurrant and different sweeteners: honey/isomalt (HI) sweetened with honey/isomalt, and isomalt/stevia (IS) sweetened with isomalt/stevia. Both snacks showed high bioactive compounds retention (>75%) and no significant changes in several physicochemical properties after 6 months storage. Fresh snacks were hard and crunchy, and the perception of consumers within liking categories was: HI: 43%, and IS: 72%. After storage HI snack showed higher acceptance by consumers (75% within liking categories) while IS snack showed a decrease in their acceptance (63% within disliking categories). The penalty analysis showed that the sensory shelf-life of both snacks would be limited by the changes produced in texture and color during storage. HI snack could reach six storage months, while IS would be stored up to 3 months. The use of diverse sweeteners allowed obtaining two different products which could be incorporated into a healthy diet., Competing Interests: DECLARATION OF CONFLICTING INTERESTSThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Consumption of ultra-processed foods [UPFs] may be associated with negative health outcomes. Limited data exist regarding the potential role of UPFs in the occurrence of allergic diseases. The underlying mechanisms underpinning any such associations are also poorly elucidated., Methods: We performed a systematic review and narrative evidence synthesis of the available literature to assess associations between UPF consumption and pediatric allergy outcomes (n = 26 papers), including data on the association seen with the gut microbiome (n = 16 papers) or immune system (n = 3 papers) structure and function following PRISMA guidelines., Results: Dietary exposure to fructose, carbonated soft drinks, and sugar intake was associated with an increased risk of asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergies in children. Commercial baby food intake was associated with childhood food allergy. Childhood intake of fructose, fruit juices, sugar-sweetened beverages, high carbohydrate UPFs, monosodium glutamate, UPFs, and advanced glycated end-products (AGEs) was associated with the occurrence of allergic diseases. Exposure to UPFs and common ingredients in UPFs seem to be associated with increased occurrence of allergic diseases such as asthma, wheezing, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis, in many, but not all studies., Conclusion: More preclinical and clinical studies are required to better define the link between UPF consumption and the risk of allergies and asthma. These observational studies ideally require supporting data with clearly defined UPF consumption, validated dietary measures, and mechanistic assessments to definitively link UPFs with the risk of allergies and asthma., (© 2024 European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Purpose: Diet-related factors are of great significance in the regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axes. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of chronic exposure to a high fat diet (HFD), fructose or sucralose on the endocrine functions., Methods: Male, Sprague-Dawley rats received a normal chow diet, HFD, 10% fructose or 0.02% sucralose for 10 weeks. Behavioral changes were assessed by open field (OFT) and elevated plus-maze (EPM) tests at week 8. H&E staining was used to observe pathological changes in adrenal cortex, testis and perirenal adipose tissue. Serum hormone concentrations were quantified via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mRNA expression levels of genes along the HPA and HPG axes were determined using real-time PCR., Results: All types of dietary interventions increased body weight and disturbed metabolic homeostasis, with anxiogenic phenotype in behavioral tests and damage to cell morphology of adrenal cortex and testis being observed. Along the HPA axis, significantly increased corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) concentrations were observed in the HFD or 0.02% sucralose group. For HPG axis, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and estradiol (E2) concentrations were significantly increased in all dietary intervention groups, while decreased concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone (T) were also detected. Moreover, transcriptional profiles of genes involved in the synthesis of hormones and corresponding hormone receptors were significantly altered., Conclusion: Long-term consumption of HFD, fructose or sucralose manifested deleterious effects on endocrine system and resulted in the dysregulation of HPA and HPG axes., (© 2024. Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)