In a move that is sure to excite fans of the iconic cookie, Mondelez announced that Oreo Zero Sugar and Oreo Double Stuf Zero Sugar will hit U.S. shelves in January. The announcement marked the first time the brand has offered sugar‑free Oreos in the United States, although the products are already available in Europe and China. Mondelez said the new varieties will become a permanent addition to the Oreo lineup, ensuring that the brand’s classic sandwich cookie is accessible to consumers who want to reduce or eliminate sugar from their diet.
The company highlighted a growing trend toward what it calls “mindful indulgence,” describing the new Oreos as a response to a gap in the market for sugar‑free sandwich cookies. This shift reflects broader consumer preferences for snacks that feel indulgent yet are aligned with health goals. The move also positions Oreo alongside other brands that have begun offering low‑sugar or sugar‑free alternatives in recent years.
Industry analysts point to a broader trend toward healthier snack options. A report earlier this year from market‑research firm Circana found that a majority of Americans are seeking out snacks they consider “good for them.” Conagra Brands, which produces popcorn and Slim Jim meat snacks, noted that Millennials and Generation Z consumers, in particular, are looking for portion‑controlled and wellness‑focused snacks.
Coca‑Cola’s own zero‑sugar beverage has seen significant growth, with sales jumping 9% last year compared with a 2% increase for regular Coke. Mondelez faces similar competition from other confectionery giants. Hershey sells zero‑sugar versions of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and other candies, while Voortman offers a sugar‑free wafer cookie brand that appeals to the same health‑conscious audience.
Mondelez said it spent four years developing the no‑sugar Oreos to ensure the cookies still tasted like the originals. The company used a blend of sweeteners to replicate the classic flavor profile. The ingredients include maltitol, a sugar alcohol found in some fruits and vegetables; polydextrose, a soluble fiber; sucralose, a sweetener derived from sugar; and acesulfame potassium, a synthetic sweetener.
The nutrition data for Zero Sugar and regular Oreos is not directly comparable because the serving sizes differ. A serving of Oreo Zero Sugar is defined as 22.6 grams and contains 90 calories, 4.5 grams of fat, and 16 grams of carbohydrates. In contrast, a serving of regular Oreos—defined as three cookies or 34 grams—provides 160 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 25 grams of carbohydrates.
The most noticeable difference is the sugar content. A regular Oreo serving contains 13 grams of added sugars, which represents 26% of the recommended daily amount. Zero Sugar Oreos contain none of the added sugars, making them a clear choice for consumers who want to cut sugar without sacrificing the cookie experience.
The Reese’s Oreo Cup is another recent addition to the Oreo family. The product combines milk chocolate with cream from Oreo, filled in the center with peanut butter and pieces of Oreo cookie. It is marketed as a premium indulgence that still fits within the brand’s broader strategy of offering variety and innovation.
In summary, Mondelez’s introduction of Oreo Zero Sugar and Oreo Double Stuf Zero Sugar is a significant expansion of the brand’s portfolio. The launch reflects a broader shift toward healthier snacking and positions Oreo to meet the demands of consumers who want to enjoy familiar flavors while reducing sugar intake. The new varieties will be available nationwide starting in January, marking a milestone for the iconic cookie.
Key Takeaways
- Oreo Zero Sugar and Double Stuf Zero Sugar debut in the U.S. in January, becoming permanent lineup additions.
- The launch responds to a market gap for sugar‑free sandwich cookies amid growing “mindful indulgence” trends.
- Competitors like Hershey and Voortman also offer sugar‑free candy and cookie options, intensifying market competition.
This development underscores Mondelez’s commitment to expanding its snack offerings to align with evolving consumer preferences for healthier choices without compromising taste.
