Zero-Calorie Indulgence

In the middle of this year, China granted Cargill regulatory approval for the use and distribution of Zerose erythritol in the country with no restrictions on the product’s applications. The natural, non-caloric bulk sweetener, which is an alternative to sugar sweeteners, has also been approved by authorities in Thailand for use in the country’s food and beverage industry. Informative technical seminars on the product’s development and marketing strategies were subsequently conducted in these countries. Asia Food Journal speaks to Janie Wong, marketing and communication manager, Asia Pacific, Cargill Health and Nutrition to find out more.

AFJ: What are the regulatory approvals for Zerose erythritol in China and Thailand?

Wong: The approvals for both countries are different primarily because of the product’s exposure and previous acceptance. In Thailand, for instance, erythritol is an approved ingredient and we worked with our Thai partner GMP to obtain an import license from Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA) for the sale and distribution of Zerose erythritol in the country. In China, Zerose erythritol obtained regulatory approval from the Chinese Ministry of Health with no restriction on its applications.

AFJ: What product development possibilities can Thai manufacturers have with Zerose erythritol?

Wong: Zerose erythritol has zero calories and is sugar-free. It can help to formulate products that contain no calories or reduced calories. Food manufacturers could then have a “sugar-free” claim on their products.

When compared with sucrose, Zerose erythritol has a taste profi le and functionality that is similar to the sweetener but without the calories. Studies have also shown that erythritol has the highest digestive tolerance compared with other polyols sweeteners. Food manufacturers could combine these properties with appealing tastes and mouthfeel in their products for the health-conscious market.

When compared with sucrose, Zerose erythritol has a taste profile and functionality that is similar to the sweetener but without the calories.

(L-R): Takafumi Kato, product champion for erythritol, Asia Pacific cum regional sales manager for Japan & South Korea, Cargill Health & Nutrition, Janie Wong, marketing & communication manager – Asia Pacific, Cargill Health & Nutrition, and Paitoon Uthaisang, general manager, Cargill Starches & Sweeteners Thailand at a technical seminar in Bangkok, Thailand in November 2008.

AFJ: How can Thai consumers be encouraged to make the switch to using Zerose erythritol?

Wong: Like most consumers, Thai consumers seek a healthy yet indulgent diet. While they desire health and weight control, they also enjoy calorie-rich food. In 2007, the Thai government launched a campaign to help overweight Thais fight obesity in an effort to lower instances of heart disease and diabetes. It was also aimed at battling rising healthcare costs that are associated to lifestyle and diet.

Cargill conducted informative technical seminars such as this in Bangkok, Thailand last month on Zerose erythritol in food and beverage applications.

(L-R): Watcharah Praesangiam, general manager, GMP., Takafumi Kato, product champion for erythritol, Asia Pacifi c cum regional sales manager for Japan & South Korea, Cargill Health & Nutrition at a technical seminar in Bangkok, Thailand in November 2008.

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Sweet Treats

Zerose erythritol is a natural, non-caloric bulk sweetener alternative to sugar. Erythritol, also known as polyol or sugar alcohol, is a white crystalline powder that is odorless, with a clean sweet taste that is similar to sucrose. Unlike other polyols, which have lower tolerance for a laxative effect, Zerose erythritol is well tolerated. As a result, foods containing erythritol are unlikely to cause gas or laxation when consumed at customary serving sizes. An organic version of Zerose erythritol is also available to Chinese manufacturers.

The sweetener appeals to consumers who want to manage their weight or sugar intake because although it has a taste similar to sugar, Zerose erythritol has zero calories and no aftertaste. People on diabetic diets could use this sugar alternative as it is non-glycemic and non-insulinemic. As it is not a saccharide or simple sugars substrate, Zerose erythritol is resistant to metabolism by oral bacteria and thus does not cause tooth decay. The range of applications includes confectionery, beverages, jellies and jelly drinks, tabletop sweeteners and oral care.

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