GATWICK, UNITED KINGDOM — Nestle UK and Ireland have introduced Milkybar Wowsomes, the first chocolate bars in the world to use Nestle’s new sugar reduction technique. The bars contain under 37 grams of sugar per 100 grams, which is 30% less sugar than similar chocolate products, according to Nestle. Milkybar Wowsomes contain no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colors or flavorings.
Nestle in 2016 reported it had discovered a way to change the structure of sugar so that it dissolves more quickly on the tongue, allowing people to perceive an almost identical sweetness but with less sugar. The technique involves spray drying a mixture of sugar, milk powder and water to form a porous sugar. While normal sugar comes in crystal form, this amorphous sugar dissolves faster in the mouth.
Sugar structured in this way is only stable in dry products. In beverages, the sugar would dissolve before it was consumed. Nestle has said its new process may lead to sugar reduction of up to 40% in confectionery items such as chocolate. The company has achieved a 30% sugar reduction in the Milkybar Wowsomes.
“We have an unrivalled research and development network, and the experts at our product technology center in York have been instrumental in this breakthrough,” said Stefano Agostini, chief executive officer of Nestle UK and Ireland. “Teams across our U.K. business and around the world have been working incredibly hard to make this launch a reality.”
Milkybar Wowsomes contain milk and crispy oat cereal pieces. The bars are available in two varieties: white chocolate and milk and white chocolate. They come in three formats: single bar, a multipack and a stock-up bag that contains individually wrapped single pieces. The bars will be available at retail outlets in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
