Artificial sweeteners are increasingly taking the place of traditional sugar in popular foods and beverages, including sodas, candies like caramels, and even protein bars. The shift reflects growing consumer demand for lower-calorie and sugar-free alternatives amid rising health concerns. While these substitutes help reduce sugar intake, they also raise questions about long-term health effects and taste differences. Manufacturers continue to expand their use in a wide range of products to meet evolving dietary preferences.
Dates are replacing refined sugar in everything from soda to caramels to protein bars.
