Fructose, generally known as a ‘fruit sugar’; is a naturally occurring sugar. It is found in numerous plants, fruits, vegetables, berries, and honey. Fructose and other sugars are carbohydrates, which are vital source of the energy.
What is Fructose?
Fructose is a monosaccharide with similar chemical formula as glucose, but different molecular structure. It is one of the three dietary monosaccharides including glucose and galactose that are directly absorbed into the blood. Pure dry fructose is white, odourless crystalline solid, which is very sweet and water-soluble.
Commercially, fructose is extracted from sugar beets, sugar cane, and maize. It is available in the form of crystalline, and syrup. Fructose is extensively used in food and beverages industries to produce several products like moist cookies, nutrition bars, low sugar energy drinks, pourable and frozen juice concentrates, and other such products.
The low glycemic index of fructose has minimal impact on the blood glucose levels as compared to regular sugar. Both these sugars are used and metabolized in different ways. Glucose is digested, absorbed, and transported to the liver and is then released into the blood. Various tissues receive energy with the help of glucose. Insulin is required for this process. Fructose on the other hand, is metabolized in the liver without the help of insulin.
Corn Sweet Crystalline Fructose
Recently, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) has developed a dry fructose “CornSweet Crystalline”. It has low Glycemic Index and intense sweetness. This fructose can be used in various of applications such as dairy, beverages, frozen products, baked foods, reduced calorie foods, jams & jellies, sauces & toppings, and canned fruits.
Market Overview
According to a report by Grand View Research, Inc.; the global fructose market is anticipated to gain nearly USD 5.6 billion by 2025. Increasing demand for low sugar food products and awareness regarding diabetes can drive the market over the forecast period (2014 to 2025).
Solid fructose products are made up of crystalline and sweeteners with more than 40% concentration. It is predicted to grow at nearly 4.5% CAGR till 2025. Growing demand from pharmaceutical and confectionaries is the key market driver. Fructose syrup may emerge as the fastest growing product at around 4.7% CAGR from 2017 to 2025. Rising demand from beverage manufacturing can boost the growth in the years to come
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In 2016, North America dominated the worldwide market with around 40% share. Rising population and health concerns are anticipated to propel the regional growth. Asia Pacific is expected to become the fastest growing region over the forecast period due to high demand from confectionaries and processed foods. Preference for sugar free foods due to high prevalence of diabetes can further support the growth by 2025).
Some key players operating in the market are Gadot Biochemical Industries Ltd.; Daniels Midland; Tate &Lyle; DuPont, and Galam.
In-Depth research report on Fructose Market:
http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/global-fructose-market