Middle East & Africa Non-sugar Sweeteners Market Outlook, 2028

Religion plays a significant role in the Middle East & Africa region, particularly in countries with predominantly Muslim populations. Islam prohibits the consumption of alcohol-based products, which includes certain artificial sweeteners like aspartame. Therefore, non-sugar sweeteners derived from natural sources like stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol are popular choices as they are considered halal and permissible under Islamic dietary laws. Some countries in the Middle East & Africa region have a rich culinary heritage with a long history of using natural sweeteners derived from plants or herbs. For example, dates and honey have been traditional sweeteners in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. Non-sugar sweeteners that originate from natural sources, such as stevia, fit well with these traditional practices and are seen as more in line with local culinary customs. The Middle East & Africa region has diverse culinary traditions, with each country and culture having its own unique flavors and dishes. Non-sugar sweeteners are often integrated into traditional desserts, beverages, and confectionery, preserving the authenticity of local culinary heritage while offering a healthier sweetening option. Tea and coffee hold immense cultural significance in the Middle East & Africa region, often served as a gesture of hospitality. Non-sugar sweeteners are widely used to sweeten these beverages without altering their authentic taste, catering to local preferences. Halal certification is essential for food products to be considered permissible for Muslim consumers. Non-sugar sweeteners derived from halal sources offer a reliable sweetening option for those seeking halal-certified products. Herbal infusions, such as Moroccan mint tea and South African rooibos tea, are an integral part of the culinary culture in the Middle East & Africa region. Non-sugar sweeteners, especially those sourced from natural herbs like stevia, are commonly used to sweeten these traditional beverages, preserving their authentic flavors while providing a healthier alternative to sugar. Sweets and desserts hold special cultural significance in the Middle East & Africa region, often associated with celebrations, festivals, and hospitality. Non-sugar sweeteners are increasingly being used in traditional sweets, confectionery, and desserts to reduce sugar content while maintaining the cherished sweetness that is an essential part of the culinary heritage.

According to the research report, Middle East & Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener Market Outlook, 2028 the market is anticipated to cross more than USD 1.25 Billion market size by 2028. Obesity is a significant health concern in the Middle East & Africa region. Governments and health organizations are promoting sugar reduction campaigns to address this issue. Non-sugar sweeteners are being adopted by food and beverage manufacturers as a means to reformulate products and reduce sugar content to align with health recommendations. Consumers in the Middle East & Africa region are increasingly seeking natural and plant-based food and beverage products. Non-sugar sweeteners derived from natural sources, such as stevia and monk fruit, are gaining popularity due to their plant-based origin, aligning with the region's cultural and dietary preferences. Non-sugar sweeteners are being offered in various product formats to cater to diverse consumer needs. Liquid drops, powder sachets, tablet sweeteners, and granulated forms are becoming more prevalent, providing consumers with convenient options for sweetening their food and drinks. The steady economic growth and rising disposable income in the Middle East & Africa region are influencing consumer purchasing power. As consumers have more disposable income, they are willing to spend on premium products, including those containing non-sugar sweeteners. The foodservice and hospitality industry in the Middle East & Africa region is incorporating non-sugar sweeteners into its offerings. Restaurants, cafes, and hotels are offering sugar-free or reduced-sugar options to cater to health-aware diners. Manufacturers of non-sugar sweeteners are strengthening their distribution networks across the Middle East & Africa region to reach a wider consumer base. This includes partnering with distributors, retailers, and wholesalers to expand their market presence.

Based on the country, South Africa is the second-largest market where the market size is expected to add more than USD 50 Million from 2023 to 2028.

There has been a growing awareness of the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption in South Africa. Consumers are increasingly adopting healthier lifestyles and seeking alternatives to traditional sugar to manage weight, diabetes, and other health conditions. South Africa, along with other countries in the region, has been experiencing an increase in obesity and diabetes rates. Non-sugar sweeteners offer a viable solution for individuals looking to reduce their sugar intake and manage these health conditions. Urbanization and Westernization have brought changes in dietary habits and preferences in South Africa. As urban areas see an increase in processed and convenience foods, the demand for healthier, low-sugar alternatives, including non-sugar sweeteners, has risen. The region's changing demographics, including a growing middle class and urbanization, have resulted in shifting dietary preferences. As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for non-sugar sweeteners as healthier alternatives to sugar has increased. Some countries in the region have implemented public nutrition programs that incorporate non-sugar sweeteners in school meals and other public food initiatives to promote healthier diets. As disposable income levels rise in certain Middle Eastern and African countries, consumers are more willing to spend on healthier food options, including those sweetened with non-sugar alternatives. Non-sugar sweeteners are popular during religious fasting periods, such as Ramadan, as they allow individuals to satisfy their sweet cravings without breaking their fasts.

Based on Source, Artificial segment is leading with around 50% revenue share in 2022 in Middle East & Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener market.

Artificial sweeteners are characterized by their intense sweetness without the presence of calories. As obesity rates and concerns about weight management rise in the Middle East & Africa region, consumers are increasingly seeking low-calorie or calorie-free alternatives to traditional sugars. Artificial sweeteners offer sweetness without contributing to daily caloric intake, making them attractive options for health-conscious individuals. The prevalence of diabetes is a significant health concern in the Middle East & Africa region. Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose, do not significantly impact blood glucose levels, making them suitable choices for people with diabetes. They provide a way for individuals with diabetes to enjoy sweet-tasting food and beverages without worrying about spikes in blood sugar levels. Artificial sweeteners have excellent stability, even at high temperatures. This characteristic makes them suitable for use in food and beverage products that undergo heat treatment during processing or cooking. They can maintain their sweetness, taste, and properties under various processing conditions. Artificial sweeteners are versatile and can be used in various food and beverage applications. They are found in soft drinks, diet beverages, sugar-free confectionery, tabletop sweeteners, and a range of processed foods, offering consumers a diverse selection of reduced-calorie or calorie-free options.

High intensity Sweeteners are expected to have a market share of more than 55% in the Middle East & Africa non-sugar sweetener industry in 2022, according to the type.

In the Middle East & Africa region, where traditional sweets and desserts hold cultural significance, the acceptance of High-Intensity Sweeteners can vary across countries. While some consumers readily embrace the use of these sweeteners, others may have strong preferences for traditional sugar-based sweets. Manufacturers are adapting their products and formulations to strike a balance between traditional flavors and the benefits of High-Intensity Sweeteners, catering to diverse cultural preferences. High-Intensity Sweeteners are witnessing significant demand in the Middle East & Africa region's beverage sector, particularly in low-calorie and sugar-free beverages. The rising popularity of health and wellness drinks, such as functional beverages and natural fruit juices with reduced sugar content, is driving the use of High-Intensity Sweeteners as a means to offer refreshing and flavorful options without added calories. Beyond food and beverages, High-Intensity Sweeteners are making their way into the cosmetics and personal care industry. Skincare products, lip balms, and oral care items often use these sweeteners to enhance flavors and provide a pleasant consumer experience.

Based on product type, non-nutritive segment is leading with around 55% revenue share by 2028 in Middle East & Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener market.

In some parts of the Middle East & Africa region, herbal sweeteners with non-nutritive properties are gaining popularity. These sweeteners are derived from specific local herbs and plants and are perceived as natural alternatives to artificial sweeteners. Dates are an essential component of the Middle Eastern diet, and researchers are exploring the potential for extracting non-nutritive sweeteners from dates as a local and sustainable alternative. The utilization of date-based sweeteners aligns with the region's cultural significance and offers a unique twist to the non-nutritive sweetener market. n the Middle East & Africa region, sweetness is often associated with hospitality, celebrations, and social gatherings. Non-nutritive sweeteners have the potential to redefine the cultural symbolism of sweetness, offering an opportunity for consumers to enjoy sweet flavors while embracing healthier choices during festive occasions and daily interactions. Ayurveda and herbal products are highly valued in some parts of the Middle East & Africa region for their potential health benefits. Non-nutritive sweeteners, especially those derived from herbs, are being explored as a suitable addition to these products. The growing interest in sports and fitness activities in the Middle East & Africa region is driving demand for sports nutrition products. Non-nutritive sweeteners are finding applications in sports beverages and supplements, providing athletes with a low-calorie sweetening option.

Based on the application, Cosmetics and Personal Care is expected to grow with more than 7.5% CAGR by 2023-28 in the Middle East & Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener market.

Non-sugar sweeteners, particularly those derived from natural sources, are often considered gentle and non-irritating to the skin. This makes them suitable for cosmetic and personal care products aimed at individuals with sensitive or reactive skin. The MEA region has a large population of young and health-conscious individuals who prioritize natural and organic products. Non-sugar sweeteners align with their lifestyle choices and drive demand for clean and healthy personal care options. Some countries in the MEA region have started regulating the sugar content in cosmetic and personal care products. Non-sugar sweeteners provide a practical solution for formulators to comply with such regulations while maintaining product sweetness. In waterless or low-water formulations, non-sugar sweeteners can enhance the texture and consistency of products, such as solid perfumes and anhydrous body butters. The demand for sugar-free makeup products, including lipsticks, lip glosses, and other color cosmetics, is on the rise. Non-sugar sweeteners offer a viable solution for enhancing the sweetness of these products without using traditional sugars.

Market Players Insights

The market is highly fragmented with large number of key players present across the North America value chain. Key industry participants include Cargill, Incorporated, The Archer-Daniels-Midland Company, Tate & Lyle PLC, Ingredion Incorporated, Ajinomoto Co., Inc, Celanese Corporation, DuPont de Nemours, Inc., International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), Royal DSM N.V., Dohler Group SE.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Middle East & Africa Non-Sugar Sweeteners with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Non-Sugar Sweeteners market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Source

• Artificial
• Sugar Alcohol
• Natural

By Type

• High-Intensity Sweeteners
• High Fructose Syrup
• Low-Intensity Sweeteners

By product Type

• Non- Nutritive
• Nutritive

By Application

• Food & Beverages (Bakery, Confectionery, Dairy, Juices, Functional Drinks, Carbonated Drinks)
• Nutrition and Health Supplements
• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics and Personal Care

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organisations related to the Non-Sugar Sweeteners industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.