Disappointment with the lack of taste of low and fat-free products is causing a restraint in the demand for replacement ingredients and threatening the revenue of producers, according to a study by market consultancy Frost and Sullivan.
The report, US Fat Replacers Markets, valued the market at $399 million (456m Euros) in 2000, $7 million (8m Euros) less than in 1999. The report also cited negative publicity surrounding the fat replacement ingredient Olestra as a reason for the drop in sales. The product was introduced with great expectations but clinical tests found consumption reduced absorption of nutrients and caused abdominal problems in some consumers.
Frost and Sullivan analyst Brad Watkins said: