South Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener Market Overview, 2028

South Africans the increasing awareness of health and wellness has been a significant driver behind the booming non-sugar sweetener market. As consumers become more informed about the adverse effects of excessive sugar consumption on their health, there has been a growing interest in finding healthier alternatives to sugar. Non-sugar sweeteners offer the perfect solution for those seeking sweetness without the negative health impacts of traditional sugar. South Africa is facing a growing burden of lifestyle-related diseases, including diabetes and obesity. The prevalence of these conditions has prompted individuals to adopt healthier dietary habits. Non-sugar sweeteners are an essential tool for managing blood sugar levels for those with diabetes, while also assisting in weight management for individuals trying to control obesity. The approval of natural non-sugar sweeteners, such as stevia, by regulatory authorities in South Africa has significantly boosted their popularity. Stevia, derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, is known for its intense sweetness without adding calories. Its natural origin appeals to health-conscious consumers seeking clean-label products. As health awareness grows, non-sugar sweeteners are finding their way into the daily diets of many South Africans. They are being used in home cooking, baking, and sweetening beverages, becoming an integral part of daily dietary habits. In an effort to combat obesity and promote healthier choices, South Africa introduced a sugar tax in 2018. This tax, which imposes additional costs on sugar-sweetened beverages, has encouraged the beverage industry to explore alternatives like non-sugar sweeteners to reduce the sugar content in their products.

According to the research report "South Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the South Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener market is expected to add more than USD 50 Million from 2023 to 2028. Health-conscious individuals in South Africa are experimenting with making their own non-sugar beverages at home, such as flavored water, herbal teas, and kombucha, using non-sugar sweeteners to tailor sweetness to their liking. Concerned parents are seeking healthier options for their young ones, and non-sugar sweeteners are making their way into baby foods and toddler snacks to offer sugar-free alternatives. With the increasing demand for organic and non-genetically modified (non-GMO) products, consumers in South Africa are seeking non-sugar sweeteners that are sourced from organic and non-GMO ingredients. Brands are responding by offering certified organic and non-GMO sweeteners to cater to this niche market. Low-calorie and zero-calorie sweeteners continue to gain popularity as South Africans look for options to manage their weight and reduce overall calorie intake. Non-sugar sweeteners that provide sweetness without the added calories of sugar are in high demand. Non-sugar sweeteners are being formulated into child-friendly products, such as sugar-free flavored milk, fruit snacks, and popsicles, to encourage healthier eating habits from a young age. Schools and institutions are adopting non-sugar sweeteners in their meal planning to offer healthier options to students and residents. Sugar-free desserts and beverages are becoming more common in these settings.

Artificial sweeteners are typically more cost-effective to produce compared to natural alternatives. Their mass production and availability contribute to their dominance in the non-sugar sweetener market. Artificial sweeteners are significantly sweeter than sugar, allowing manufacturers to use smaller quantities to achieve the desired level of sweetness in products. This high sweetness intensity is an attractive feature for both consumers and producers. Artificial sweeteners are stable during food processing and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for use in various food and beverage applications. In addition, the Natural segment is projected to experience the highest CAGR in the South Africa non-sugar sweetener market based on source due to the growing health consciousness among consumers. The demand for clean label and natural products, along with the natural taste and flavor profile of these sweeteners, supports their popularity. The appeal of low or zero-calorie options, diabetic-friendly attributes, and the rising interest in plant-based products further drive the growth of natural sweeteners. With a favorable regulatory environment and a wide range of applications in beverages and food products, natural sweeteners are well-positioned to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The High-Intensity Sweeteners segment is projected to hold the highest market share in the South Africa non-sugar sweetener market based on type due to its intense sweetness, low-calorie nature, and suitability for sugar reduction and reformulation. The wide range of applications, stability in processing, and flavor-enhancing properties contribute to their popularity among food and beverage manufacturers. With regulatory approval and safety assurances, high-intensity sweeteners are trusted by consumers and widely utilized as sugar substitutes. As consumer preferences shift towards low-sugar and healthier alternatives, the demand for high-intensity sweeteners in South Africa is expected to remain robust. In addition, the Nutritive segment is projected to experience the highest CAGR in the South Africa non-sugar sweetener market based on product type due to the natural nutritional benefits they offer. Diabetic-friendly options, reduced caloric impact, and their favorable taste and mouthfeel contribute to their popularity. As the clean label and natural trend gain momentum, nutritive sweeteners derived from natural sources are well-positioned to meet consumer preferences. Nutritive sweeteners can enhance the texture of certain products, such as baked goods and frozen desserts. Additionally, they can extend the shelf life of some food items due to their preservative properties.

The Food & Beverages segment, encompassing various categories such as Bakery, Confectionery, Dairy, Juices, Functional Drinks, and Carbonated Drinks, is expected to hold the highest market share in the South Africa non-sugar sweetener market. The segment's growth is driven by the increasing health consciousness among consumers, sugar reduction efforts by food and beverage manufacturers, and the demand for diabetic-friendly and low-calorie formulations. With increasing urbanization and busy lifestyles, there is a higher demand for convenient and ready-to-consume food and beverage products. Non-sugar sweeteners allow manufacturers to create healthier and more portable options for consumers on the go. In addition, The cosmetics and personal care industry in South Africa is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing disposable incomes, changing beauty preferences, and a focus on personal grooming and self-care. Non-sugar sweeteners are being used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products to enhance their appeal to consumers. Non-sugar sweeteners are often used in aromatherapy and fragrance products, such as scented body lotions, creams, and oils, to provide a sweet and pleasant scent without the use of traditional sugars. The demand for such products is rising as consumers seek indulgent and sensory experiences in their beauty routines.



Considered in this report
• Geography: South Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028


Aspects covered in this report
• South Africa Non-Sugar Sweetener market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Source
• Artificial
• Sugar Alcohol
• Natural

By Type
• High-Intensity Sweeteners
• High Fructose Syrup
• Low-Intensity Sweeteners

By product Type
• Non- Nutritive
• Nutritive

By Application
• Food & Beverages (Bakery, Confectionery, Dairy, Juices, Functional Drinks, Carbonated Drinks)
• Nutrition and Health Supplements
• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics and Personal Care


The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Non-Sugar Sweetener industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.