URGENT UPDATE: Health-conscious consumers in the U.S. are about to gain a new sweet option, as Mondelez announces the launch of Oreo Zero Sugar and Oreo Double Stuf Zero Sugar cookies, set to hit store shelves in January 2024. This marks a significant milestone as these will be the first sugar-free Oreos available in the U.S., responding directly to a growing market demand for healthier snacking alternatives.
The introduction comes as part of Mondelez’s strategy to fill a gap in the market for sugar-free sandwich cookies, a category that is quickly gaining traction. According to recent findings from market research firm Circana, a majority of Americans are increasingly seeking snacks they believe are better for their health. This trend is particularly strong among younger consumers, with Millennials and Generation Z prioritizing portion-controlled and wellness-focused options.
Earlier this year, Coca-Cola’s Zero Sugar line saw a notable 9% increase in sales, while traditional Coke sales lagged behind at just 2%. This data underscores a clear shift in consumer preferences towards lower-sugar alternatives, prompting Mondelez to invest four years in perfecting the taste of their new products.
The Oreo Zero Sugar cookies will be sweetened with a blend of maltitol, polydextrose, sucralose, and acesulfame potassium, ensuring that they maintain the classic Oreo flavor without the added sugars. A serving of the new Zero Sugar cookies, defined as 22.6 grams, contains only 90 calories, 4.5 grams of fat, and 16 grams of carbohydrates, with zero added sugars. In contrast, a serving of regular Oreos, usually three cookies or 34 grams, has 160 calories and 13 grams of added sugars—making the shift to Zero Sugar a significant choice for health-conscious consumers.
This launch is not without competition. Hershey has been making strides with its own zero-sugar products, such as Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, while Voortman has been catering to the sugar-free market with its wafer cookies. Mondelez’s entry into this space highlights the increasing importance of health trends in the snack food industry.
With the new Oreo varieties set to become permanent fixtures in stores nationwide, consumers are eagerly anticipating how these sugar-free delights will impact their snacking habits. As the market for healthier snacks continues to expand, all eyes will be on Mondelez to see how their new offerings perform in a rapidly shifting landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the launch date approaches!
