Samyang Corp. executives and employees who participated in the International Food Technology Expo in Chicago, pose for a commemorative photo at the event held during July 11 through July 13. Samyang unveiled the allulose-based brand Nexweet to the global market for the first time at this exhibition. Courtesy of Samyang Corp.

By Kim Hyun-bin

Samyang Corp. is busy marketing its latest artificial sweetener in the global market.

The chemical and food product manufacturer introduced Nexweet, an allulose sweetener, at the International Food Technology Fair (IFT 2022) that was held in Chicago, U.S. from July 11 to July 13.

Allulose is a sugar found in figs and grapes. As it has a sweetness similar to sugar but zero calories, Samyang claims it is the best next-generation sweetener. The brand name Nexweet is a combination of next and sweet.

Following the successful mass production of liquid allulose in 2016 with an enzyme it had developed, the company recently built a dedicated plant in Ulsan and started the production of crystalline (powdered) allulose. Crystalline allulose is easier to handle than liquid, making it more convenient to export. As it has the same form as conventional powdered sugar, it can also quickly be adapted to various applications including bakeries.

Samyang created a tasting space for various drinks, jams, and cereal bars made using allulose and indigestible maltodextrin at its booth, providing global customers with an opportunity to experience the two products firsthand.

Indigestible maltodextrin is a functional raw material that helps promote smooth bowel movements, decreases blood sugar levels after meals, helps reduce blood triglycerides or fat found in the blood, and can be used in beverages, cereal bars, confectionery products, and fermented milk. Another product being developed is Kestose, which is one of the main components of fructooligosaccharide or artificial sweeteners, and Samyang is conducting human application tests for Kestose to be recognized as a health functional food ingredient.

This year, Samyang completed building a plant in Ulsan that produces indigestible maltodextrin and fructooligosaccharides, and is pushing to expand the domestic and overseas markets for those products.

"Samyang is targeting the global market by producing various premium sugars and prebiotics with its own enzyme technology. It will be established to compete with global companies," an official from Samyang said.