Sugar-Free Sugar-Free: Migros and Coop Annoyed by Sugus Recipe Changes

Sugus Recipe Change Leaves Loyal Fans Disappointed

October 8, 2025, 11:04 AM

A cherished Swiss confection, Sugus, is facing backlash after a significant alteration to its traditional recipe.The change, announced by current owner USSUS Mars Wrigley Company, has left manny devoted customers feeling nostalgic and dissatisfied.

The Shift to Vegetarian and Gluten-Free

The iconic candy, formerly produced by Swiss Chocolatier Suchard, is now exclusively made with vegetarian candies and is gluten-free, presented in a square format. This means the removal of pork gelatin, a key ingredient in the original Sugus, and the discontinuation of its distinctive “papillote” packaging.

According to Mars Wrigley Company representatives, the decision was made to adapt to evolving consumer preferences. They stated that the company continuously strives to align its products with current market demands.

Retailers Report Declining Demand

Despite the company’s rationale, initial consumer reaction has been largely negative. Major retailers in Switzerland, Coop and Migros, have reported a noticeable decline in Sugus sales. A spokesperson for Coop confirmed a “significant drop in demand,” while Migros noted receiving returns from customers expressing disappointment with the changes.

Sweets.ch, Switzerland’s largest online confectionery store, described the feedback as “100% negative, and sometimes very virulent.” Online comments echoed this sentiment, with customers criticizing the new texture – described as stickier – and the less convenient square packaging.

One online reviewer commented, “With the new design, it looks like they stayed two years at the bottom of a drawer before being consumed…” Others simply stated, “New Sugus is a disaster,” “New Suggers have a horrible taste,” and “We can no longer eat that.”

Packaging Concerns Add to Discontent

Beyond the altered flavor and texture, the new packaging is proving to be a source of frustration. Customers are finding the square format more tough to open, with the candy often sticking to the paper wrapper. A user summarized the problem, questioning the logic behind the changes and expressing dissatisfaction with both the taste and consistency of the new product.

Did You Know? Product reformulation is a common practice in the food industry, frequently enough driven by health trends, allergen concerns, or cost considerations. Tho, altering a beloved nostalgic product carries significant risk of alienating loyal customers.

Feature	Original Sugus	New Sugus
Gelatin Source	Pork Gelatin	Vegetarian/Modified Starch
Packaging	“papillote” (foil wrapper)	Square,paper wrapper
Texture	Smooth,distinct bite	Stickier
Gluten	Not Specified	Gluten-Free

Pro Tip: Brands often monitor social media and customer reviews closely following a product change. This feedback is crucial for making further adjustments or understanding the extent of the impact.

The Broader Trend of Legacy Brand Reformulation

Sugus is not alone in facing consumer backlash over recipe changes.Many iconic brands have attempted to modernize their products, sometimes with unintended consequences. The key lies in balancing innovation with the preservation of core qualities that define the brand’s identity. According to a recent report by Mintel, 38% of consumers are hesitant to try reformulated products, citing concerns about altered taste or texture. Mintel Report This highlights the importance of transparency and careful consideration when making changes to beloved products.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Sugus Change

• What has changed in the Sugus recipe? The original recipe containing pork gelatin has been replaced with a vegetarian choice and modified starch.
• Why did Mars Wrigley Company change the Sugus recipe? The company stated they are adapting to evolving consumer preferences.
• What is the reaction to the new Sugus? Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly negative, with complaints about the taste, texture, and packaging.
• Where can I find more data about the Sugus changes? Information can be found through Swiss retailers like Coop and Migros,as well as online confectionery stores.
• Will the original Sugus recipe return? As of now, there is no indication that the original recipe will be reinstated.

What are your thoughts on the new Sugus? Do you think brands should prioritize adapting to modern preferences, or preserving their original formulas?

Share your opinions in the comments below and spread the word!

How do changes in food product formulations impact consumer loyalty and retailer-manufacturer relationships?

Sugar-Free Sugus Shake-Up: Migros and Coop Express Disappointment over Recipe Changes

The beloved Swiss sugar-free drink,Sugus,has sparked controversy with recent recipe alterations. Major retailers Migros and Coop have publicly voiced their annoyance, citing customer complaints and concerns over the new formulation. This article dives deep into the changes,the retailer reactions,and what it means for consumers seeking sugar-free beverages and low-calorie drinks in Switzerland.

what’s Changed in the Sugus Recipe?

For decades, Sugus has been a staple in Swiss households, known for its distinctive taste and zero-sugar content. The core appeal lay in its use of artificial sweeteners, primarily cyclamate and saccharin. However,in late 2024,the manufacturer,Sucotec,quietly began transitioning to a new sweetener blend featuring stevia.

Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:

* Sweetener Shift: Cyclamate and saccharin are being phased out, replaced with stevia and erythritol.

* Taste Profile: Consumers report a noticeable difference in taste, with many describing the new Sugus as having a lingering aftertaste or a less refreshing flavor. Common descriptors include “bitter,” “chemical,” and “not the same.”

* Ingredient List: The ingredient list now prominently features steviol glycosides (from stevia) and erythritol, alongside citric acid and flavorings.

* packaging: While the packaging remains largely the same, some newer batches include a small note indicating the “improved recipe.”

retailer reactions: Migros and Coop Speak Out

Both Migros and Coop, Switzerland’s largest supermarket chains, have responded to the growing customer dissatisfaction. They’ve received a notable influx of complaints regarding the altered taste of sugus.

* Migros: A spokesperson for Migros stated they were “surprised” by the recipe change and hadn’t been adequately informed by Sucotec. They are actively monitoring customer feedback and are in discussions with the manufacturer. Migros has seen a reported 15% decrease in Sugus sales since the recipe change.

* Coop: Coop echoed Migros’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration with suppliers. They’ve also reported a rise in customer complaints and are working with Sucotec to address the issues. Coop has temporarily increased shelf space for alternative sugar-free soft drinks to cater to dissatisfied Sugus drinkers.

Why the Change? Stevia and the Sweetener Debate

Sucotec cites health concerns and evolving consumer preferences as the driving forces behind the recipe change. While cyclamate and saccharin are approved for use in Switzerland, they have faced scrutiny in other countries due to potential health risks. Stevia, derived from the stevia plant, is ofen marketed as a “natural” sweetener and is generally considered safe.

Though, stevia isn’t without its drawbacks:

* Aftertaste: Many people experience a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste with stevia.

* Flavor Profile: Stevia doesn’t always replicate the sweetness of sugar or artificial sweeteners perfectly.

* Erythritol Concerns: While generally well-tolerated, erythritol can cause digestive issues in some individuals, particularly when consumed in large quantities.

Impact on Consumers: What are the Alternatives?

The Sugus recipe change has left many Swiss consumers searching for alternatives. Here are some popular options:

* Other Sugar-Free Soft Drinks: rivella Sugarfree, Coca-Cola Zero, and Sprite Zero are readily available.

* Sparkling Water with Natural Flavors: Increasingly popular, these offer a refreshing and healthy alternative.

* Homemade Sugar-Free Drinks: Using stevia or erythritol to sweeten homemade lemonade or iced tea.

* Zero-Calorie Syrups: Adding sugar-free syrups to sparkling water for a customized flavor experience.

* Light/Diet Versions: Exploring light or diet versions of traditional soft drinks.

The Future of Sugus: Will the Recipe Revert?

As of October 8, 2025, Sucotec has not announced any plans to revert to the original Sugus recipe. They maintain that the new formulation is healthier and aligns with current market trends. However,the sustained pressure from Migros,Coop,and disgruntled consumers could perhaps force a reevaluation.

The situation highlights the delicate balance between manufacturer innovation, retailer expectations, and consumer preferences in the food and beverage industry. The ongoing debate surrounding artificial sweeteners vs. natural sweeteners will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of Sugus and other sugar-free products.

Benefits of Choosing Sugar-Free Options

Opting for sugar-free alternatives like the original Sugus (and potentially future formulations) offers several health benefits:

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