Taking care of our bodies and feeling good about what we consume has become a priority for many people. Small changes can bring significant benefits, and replacing sugary drinks with lighter alternatives is one of the easiest and most effective steps. Among these options, sugar-free drinks have established themselves as a key pillar of a healthy and conscious lifestyle.
At Cosmos Aromática, we support companies in the food sector through this process of transformation. We specialise in the design, development and supply of bespoke flavours for each project, as well as providing technical support, physicochemical and microbiological analyses, market research and stability testing. From this experience, we thoroughly examine the world of sugar-free drinks, their benefits, and everything you need to know if you are considering innovating with this type of product.
What are the benefits of sugar-free drinks?
Sugar-free drinks have become a common choice, both for home consumption and in the hospitality sector. Their rise is no coincidence, but rather a result of growing concern for health and the prevention of diseases associated with excessive added sugars.
Lower calorie intake
A standard can of soft drink can contain between 100 and 150 calories, almost all from sugar. Replacing these drinks with sugar-free versions helps reduce calorie intake without sacrificing flavour. For those looking to lose weight or maintain an active lifestyle, this substitution can make a significant difference to the daily energy balance.
Weight and blood sugar control
According to official data compiled by the WHO and OECD, the combined prevalence of overweight and obesity in Spain exceeds 50% of the adult population. Incorporating sugar-free drinks helps moderate glucose consumption and contributes to keeping insulin levels stable, which is particularly important for people at risk of diabetes or those aiming to manage their blood sugar.
Lower risk of dental caries
Sugar feeds the bacteria in the mouth, producing acids that erode enamel and cause cavities. Choosing sugar-free drinks directly reduces this process and contributes to better long-term oral health.
Encouragement of healthy habits
Beyond physiological benefits, sugar-free drinks act as a catalyst for changes in consumption habits. Repeatedly choosing these alternatives increases awareness of what we drink and opens the door to more balanced and responsible lifestyles.
Which drinks contain no sugar?
The range of sugar-free drinks has expanded significantly in recent years. What was once limited to “light” or “zero” soft drinks now includes much broader and more sophisticated categories, catering to the demands of informed and discerning consumers.
Flavoured waters
These offer a refreshing touch with natural flavours or extracts from fruits, herbs, and spices. Many contain no added sugars and use natural sweeteners such as stevia. Their popularity has grown enormously in recent years, as consumers value refreshing options that are less monotonous than plain water.
“Zero” or “light” soft drinks
Both international and local brands have expanded their ranges, offering versions with intense flavours but no calories. While “zero” versions aim to replicate the original taste, “light” versions are positioned as lighter and milder.
Sugar-free iced teas and coffees
This segment has become well-established in both hospitality and retail. Consumers perceive them as more sophisticated and healthier options, especially when combined with plant-based milks or presented without added sweeteners. They also connect with the growing trend of ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.
Sugar-free functional drinks
The European market has seen an increase in sugar-free sports, isotonic, and energy drinks: they hydrate and provide vitamins, minerals, or plant extracts. They are targeted at both athletes and people seeking energy and vitality throughout the day, without compromising calorie intake.
Most common sweeteners
The success of sugar-free drinks largely depends on sweeteners, which help maintain a pleasant and consistent flavour over time. These compounds are mainly divided into two groups.
Natural sweeteners
Stevia is one of the most widely used. Derived from a plant of South American origin, it provides intense sweetness without calories and is well received by consumers seeking products perceived as natural.
On the other hand, monk fruit, or luo han guo, has recently been introduced to the European market. Its sweetness comes from natural antioxidants called mogrosides and does not raise blood glucose levels.
Artificial sweeteners
Sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame K are the most common in the industry. They offer high thermal stability and maintain sweetness over long storage periods. Their use is regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which sets acceptable daily intake levels to ensure safety.
In practice, many sugar-free drinks use combinations of sweeteners to achieve a flavour profile closer to that of traditional sugar and to reduce possible bitter or lingering notes.
Differences between sugar-free, light and zero drinks
Although they are often confused, there are important nuances between these terms that are worth clarifying:
- Sugar-free drinks: do not contain added sugars, but may be sweetened with sweeteners. They are aimed at consumers who want to avoid sugar in all its forms.
- Light drinks: reduce their calorie content compared to the standard version, although they may contain a certain amount of sugar. They are usually targeted at those who want to moderate calories without completely removing natural sweetness.
- Zero drinks: aim to replicate the taste of the original drink as closely as possible by replacing sugar with a blend of sweeteners that mimics its flavour profile.
Although technical, these differences are essential for marketing and consumer perception. Each label conveys a distinct message and meets specific expectations.
Are there sugar-free drinks that also provide vitamins or minerals?
Innovation in the sector is not limited to removing sugar but also includes adding additional benefits. Today’s consumers are looking for multifunctional products that hydrate, provide energy, and contribute to health. It is therefore common to find sugar-free drinks with the following characteristics:
- Sugar-free waters enriched with B vitamins, which support energy metabolism.
- Functional soft drinks with vitamin C to strengthen the immune system.
- Sugar-free isotonic drinks with electrolytes, ideal for rehydration after exercise.
- Energy drinks that incorporate green tea or guarana extracts, sugar-free and low in calories.
Flavour, health and creativity in every sip
Sugar-free drinks have moved from being a niche alternative to a well-established category that meets the needs of millions of consumers seeking health, weight management and responsible habits. They represent a significant opportunity for food companies, which can innovate with new formats, natural sweeteners, and enriched functional offerings.
Furthermore, they align with an active and conscious lifestyle, where wellbeing and informed choices about what we consume become central to everyday life.
To design and develop innovative products, at Cosmos Aromática we work closely with our clients to create bespoke flavours and drinks, using high-quality ingredients and conducting thorough testing to ensure taste, stability, and market acceptance. What are you waiting for to conquer the market with new flavours? Get in touch with our team so we can help you turn your ideas into successful products.