The rapidly expanding array of sweetener options merits a look at the best uses, applications, and formats whether considering them solely for flavor and performance or with an eye on reduction of nutritive sugars. Among the nutritive sweetener, trending sources include syrups from maple, sorghum, corn, and malted grains.
Honey and agave syrup are on the rise again as well. Also growing in popularity are fruit sweeteners from raisins, dates, figs, prunes, and other dried fruits as well as apples and even citrus. These not only can add flavor as well as sweetness, in some formulations they can substitute for part of the fat. Many fruit sweeteners in the form of pastes and syrups are high in pectin fiber, giving a boost to texture and mouthfeel.