#smarteatingwithamel

By Akan Peter Nsek

Let’s face it—most of us are trying to eat better these days. Maybe it’s because of a health scare. Maybe it’s a quiet decision after a late-night snack binge. Or maybe, like many Nigerians, we’re just becoming more aware of how sugar hides in everyday foods.

At Amel International Services Limited here in Nigeria, we’ve been paying attention too. While our Amel Susan range includes ingredients traditionally used in sweet recipes—like custard powder, cocoa, and honey—we also know they can be adapted for healthier lifestyles.

Low-sugar doesn’t have to mean low-flavour. And cutting back doesn’t mean giving up. It just means being intentional.

Let’s look at a few easy, sustainable ways to enjoy your favorite Amel Susan products—without going overboard on sugar.

1. Custard Without Sugar? Absolutely.

It might surprise you, but many of our customers are now preparing Amel Susan custard (especially the vanilla or banana variants) without adding any extra sugar at all.

They rely on the natural sweetness of ripe fruits—think mashed banana, chopped dates, or even a small drizzle of Amel Susan honey. You still get that creamy texture, without the sugar spike.

One customer told us she serves this to her diabetic mother with chopped pawpaw. “It’s soft, sweet, and filling,” she said. “And no one misses the sugar.”

2. Cocoa: Rich and Real

Here’s a common mistake—thinking cocoa means “hot chocolate.” The truth is, pure cocoa powder like ours contains no sugar at all. The sweetness? That’s something you control.

Instead of adding processed sugar, try these:

A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg

A teaspoon of Amel Susan honey

Unsweetened plant-based milk (almond or oat works great)

Stevia or dates, if you want a natural sugar substitute

This gives you the warm, bold taste of cocoa—without the sugar crash.

3. Honey as a Smart Substitute

Honey is sweet, yes. But when used strategically, it can help you use less sugar overall.

Because honey is more concentrated in sweetness, you often need only a third or half of the amount compared to regular sugar. This makes it a great option in baking or beverages where you want real flavour but want to stay mindful.

Use Amel Susan honey in:

Salad dressings

Smoothies

Homemade cereal bars

Tea or cocoa

Just remember: a little goes a long way.

4. Corn Flour for Savory Recipes

We often associate corn flour with pancakes or thickening sweet custards. But it’s actually a great tool for savory cooking.

For instance:

Use it to thicken pepper soups instead of sugary instant mixes

Mix it with blended vegetables for healthy fritters

Combine with grated yam and egg for sugar-free breakfast patties

It’s filling. It’s local. And it doesn’t need sugar to shine.

5. Rethink Baking with Less Sugar

Our Amel Susan baking soda and baking powder aren’t sweet themselves, of course—but what you do with them matters.

Try reducing sugar in your favorite recipes by 25–30%. You might be surprised how little difference it makes to the final taste. Focus on adding flavour from other places—like fresh ginger, citrus zest, cinnamon, or ripe fruit.

One baker in Abuja shared her trick with us: “I use pineapple juice instead of sugar in my banana bread. It’s moist and fruity—and my kids love it.”

Why We’re Talking About This

Food companies have a responsibility—one that goes beyond what’s on the shelf. At Amel International Services Limited, we’ve started talking more openly about health, nutrition, and how our products can fit into a balanced life.

It’s part of our long-term vision. And it’s part of what brought us into the spotlight as a nominee for the 2025 Go Global Awards, hosted by the International Trade Council this November in London.

That event isn’t just about business. It’s about innovation that serves people. Ideas that create health, connection, and future opportunity.

Representing Nigeria in that space means bringing these conversations with us. Because health matters everywhere. And it starts at home.

Final Thought

You don’t have to throw out all your favorite foods. You don’t need to stop using custard or cocoa or honey. You just need to rethink how you use them. Adjust. Adapt. Evolve with intention.