Low-Sugar Trend Drives Market Growth for Food Companies, Including Paris Baguette

A growing consumer preference for “Healthy Pleasure” – the concept of enjoying health-conscious choices – is fueling a significant expansion of the low-sugar food market. This trend, particularly prominent among the MZ generation, is prompting confectionery and bakery companies, including Paris Baguette, Orion, and Binggrae, to introduce a wave of low-sugar products.

Market Expansion

The domestic low-sugar food market in South Korea has experienced substantial growth, increasing from approximately 210 billion won in 2021 to around 570 billion won in 2024, according to a survey by global market research company Horizon. The market is growing at an annual rate of approximately 20%.

Globally, the low-sugar and sugar-free food market was estimated at $19.35 billion (approximately KRW 28.3845 trillion) in 2024. Market research firm Modo Intelligence projects this market to reach $23.52 billion (approximately KRW 34.5014 trillion) by 2029, representing an average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.98%.

Industry Response

Several major food companies have already established low-sugar product lines. CJ CheilJedang launched ‘Sugar Light’ in August 2023, a dedicated lineup targeting the sauce and marinade market. Daesang introduced the ‘LOWTAG’ emblem in April 2023 for its low-sugar, low-calorie products.

Paris Baguette and Other Bakery Innovations

Paris Baguette has responded to the trend by adding a ‘low-sugar cacao cake’ to its Blue Label premium health bakery line. This product similarly includes polyphenol, an antioxidant known for its benefits to blood vessels and skin health.

Orion has launched ‘Market O Nature One Meal Bar Cheese Flavor,’ a product designed for health-conscious consumers, reducing sugar content to 1.9g per serving while increasing protein and dietary fiber.

Binggrae plans to expand its low-sugar ice cream offerings, following the 2024 launch of ‘Heat Hunting Zero Decaffeinated Coffee’ with the upcoming release of ‘Heat Hunting Low Sugar Decaffeinated Coffee.’