Nexture and MartinBauer Launch Sugar Reduction System
The new fiber-based Sweetec system aims to replace up to half of the sugar content in various alcoholic and soft beverages.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Cocktails
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Companies Nexture and MartinBauer have introduced Sweetec, a new fiber-based technology designed to reduce sugar content in drink formulations. The system integrates vegetable-fiber technology with botanical ingredients to maintain sensory profiles.
Why it matters
Reducing sugar in beverages often compromises texture and flavor, posing a challenge for manufacturers. This system offers a potential solution for creating lower-sugar products without sacrificing the quality of the drink.
The Sweetec system is capable of replacing up to 50% of the sugar content in diverse applications like spirits, cider, and seltzers. Manufacturers are currently expected to conduct individual tests to verify processing compatibility and label requirements.
The players
Nexture
Nexture is a company that focuses on developing innovative food technology solutions for the beverage and manufacturing sectors.
MartinBauer
MartinBauer is an international firm specializing in botanical ingredients and herbal solutions for the food and beverage industries.
The details
The Sweetec system combines HIFOOD vegetable-fiber technology, known as Meltec, with MartinBauer botanical extracts marketed as Sweetcode. This combination is intended to preserve mouthfeel and flavor stability while lowering sugar levels in beverages ranging from whisky to sparkling drinks.
Timeline
The companies officially announced the launch of the Sweetec system on 27 October 2026.
Culture Shift
This launch reflects the ongoing global industry trend of sugar reduction in beverage formulations, which pushes manufacturers to innovate beyond traditional ingredients. It marks a shift toward utilizing vegetable-fiber technologies to meet health-conscious consumer demand.
For the consumer, this technology could result in more variety in reduced-sugar spirits, ciders, and sparkling beverages hitting store shelves. You may notice subtle changes in the mouthfeel or flavor profile of your favorite drinks as manufacturers reformulate their products.
The takeaway
When choosing lower-sugar options, be aware that manufacturers are increasingly using fiber-based additives to replicate the texture of traditional sugar. Checking ingredient labels will remain the most reliable way to understand how your favorite drinks are being reformulated.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Cocktails.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Asia Pacific Food Industry.
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Do you trust that reduced-sugar beverage options can maintain the same quality as original versions?
