Use of Sweeteners in Milk and Milk Products

Abstract

Obesity and related diseases among children, adolescents and adults has increased. The decrease in physical activity and the increase in consumption of high energy products containing high amounts of fat and sugar are among the most important factors causing the spread of obesity. Accordingly, the demand for low energy products is also increasing. The use of non-nutritive natural and artificial sweeteners instead of sugar is one of the most used methods in the production of low energy products. The consumption of dairy products, such as ice cream, flavored milk and yogurt, and dairy desserts, is common in all societies. The sugar in these products is responsible for many properties of foods such as texture, color, flavor. Milk and dairy products contain nutritional components that are very beneficial for human health. Using sweetener instead of sugar is very important for preventing excessive sugar intake while increasing the consumption of milk and dairy products. The aim of this review is to examine natural and artificial sweeteners and their use in dairy products, approved by organizations recognized worldwide.