In the last several years, new bulk sugar replacers have expanded the tools that can be used by confectionery technologists to make high-quality and great-tasting products. A visit to local grocery stores, supermarkets, drug stores and other outlets where confections are sold showcases the variety of sugar-free products now available to consumers. In addition to sugar-free chewing gums, products include hard and soft candies, chocolates, wafers, cough drops and many confectionery products.
According to ACNielsen (Schaumburg, Ill.), dietetic candy sales increased 95.7% in dollar sales for the 52 weeks ending March 20, 2004. The bulk of the increase was attributed to the introduction of sugar-free chocolate and chocolate-based products.