Company: Matsutani America Inc., Itasca, IL

Website: www.matsutaniamerica.com

Ingredient Snapshot: Matsutani America says its Astraea Allulose is the first plant-based, low-calorie sweetener with proven physiological benefits. In addition to reducing calories in finished products, it helps regulate blood sugar levels and lower lipid accumulation in the body, according to the company. It also offers a true sugar flavor with no aftertaste, improves aroma and color, and masks unwanted flavors. Recommended applications include beverages, confections, dairy, bakery and sweet goods. Astraea Allulose can also be used as a 100 percent table-top granular sugar replacement and as a replacement for hard candy and chewing gum at 50 percent.