[The evaluation of "natural" sweeteners, especially concentrated fruit juices, syrups and honey]

Abstract

The present paper deals with the nutritional value of some natural sweeteners, like concentrated fruit juices, special syrups and honey. The following aspects are discussed: concentration of sweet-tasting carbohydrates, average composition of essential nutrients like minerals and vitamins, and occurrence of other substances like organic acids etc. The nutritional value of natural sweeteners is not significantly different from "sugar" (saccharose): Natural sweeteners do not contribute to fulfill the need for minerals, trace elements or vitamins in an important manner. The sensoric properties are different and the intensity of sweet-taste is usually higher in sucrose than in syrups. Descriptions of such products as "naturally", "healthy", "without sugar" are not justified.