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In some cases, no substitute for sugar
By KATHY SAUNDERS
Published August 3, 2005
Television commercials with actors pouring sugar substitutes directly on their cereal inspired Taster's Choice panelists to put sugar alternatives to the test.
We tasted them straight, even though we acknowledge most consumers probably use the sweeteners in drinks, baked goods and other recipes.
Most of the sweeteners were labeled safe for diabetics and could be used as substitutes, in varying amounts, for pure sugar. They differ in texture from liquid to powder and larger granules.
Splenda, the subject of some of these commercials, scored a measly 18 out of 80 points. Two judges said they would buy Splenda, but they all found it a bit too grainy.
Their favorite was a liquid, Organic Agave Nectar ($5.59 for 8 ounces at Nature's Finest Foods). Panelists gave it 48 points and three said they liked its syrupy, honeylike texture enough to buy it.
One though, really hated it. He likened the taste to medicine.
Their next favorite was Xylo Sweet ($8.99 for 100 servings from Nature's Finest). It is made with Xylitol, the commercial name for a naturally occurring sugar commonly derived from corncobs and birch trees, according to the packaging. The product also says it fights cavities.
Panelists gave Xylo Sweet 46 points and praised its sugarlike texture, sparkling appearance and moderate aftertaste.
"This looks like the real stuff," said one judge. Three said they would buy Xylo Sweet.
An old standby, Equal ($3.04 for 50 packets) was the third choice with 40 points. Equal had a powdery appearance and texture. It was very sweet. The downside, panelists said, was a lingering aftertaste. Two judges said they would buy Equal.
Also tasted were: Albertsons Aspartame Sweetener ($2.09 for 100 packets); Albertsons Sugar Substitute ($1.49 for 100 packets); Kash n' Karry Sugar Substitute ($1.19 for 100 packets); Stevia ($5.89 for 50 packets); Sweet & Slender ($6.99 for 50 packets); Sweet N' Low ($1.69 for 50 packets); Sweet-10 liquid ($2.29) and Smoky Mountain ($1.79).
Panelists were Jim Yockey, aesthetician, Tierra Verde Salon & Day Spa; personal chefs Julie Overton and Marc Easterman; Bob Devin Jones, artistic director of Studiota620; and Nan Jensen, registered dietitian with Pinellas County Extension. All products were tasted blind.
Send suggestions for product testing to Taste section, St. Petersburg Times, P.O. Box 1121, St. Petersburg, FL 33731 or e-mail them to krieta@sptimes.com Please put TEST SUGGESTION in the subject line. To read past columns, go to www.sptimes.com/food
RANKINGS
No. 1: Organic Agave Nectar.
No. 2: Xylo Sweet.
No. 3: Equal.
[Last modified August 2, 2005, 09:45:05]
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