Annales 75.2 - Sweetness: Developmental and Functional Effects

We are witnessing a worldwide epidemic of obesity in children, adolescents, and adults. While obesity is multifactorial in origin, the increased prevalence of obesity has been paralleled by an increased consumption of “sweet” in the form of refined sugars and fat.

In nature, sweetness can be equated to energy and is associated with a powerful hedonic appeal which is observed across individuals of all ages, races, and cultures. Given that in its simplest form, increased weight gain occurs when energy intake exceeds energy consumption, one factor that is possibly modifiable is the preference of sweets and perhaps a lifelong modification towards a healthier eating life style. In this context, this issue of Annales Nestlé explores the development of sensory preferences spanning the period from the fetus to childhood.