Spatial Variations in the Consumption of Sweeteners

Abstract

This paper considers the growth and international differences in the consumption of sweeteners that include honey, centrifugal refined sugar, non‐centrifugal sugar and alternative sweeteners developed in the last 30 years, such as high fructose corn syrup. The sources of sweeteners are noted, and a brief history of consumption is given. International differences in consumption per capita are considered in 1900, the 1930s and the 1990s. The relationship between income and consumption is discussed at household, regional and national levels, but it is observed that there is a very low income elasticity of demand for sweeteners in richer countries. Since the 1960s, consumption has fallen as concern for health has increased. Although there is a strong positive relationship between national income and sweetener consumption, there are other factors at work.