IN recent years, a growing trend among young Chinese individuals has been the preference for a zero-sugar diet, reflecting a health-conscious and wellness-oriented approach to life. This “zero sugar” trend has now extended beyond dining tables to the realm of social interactions, giving rise to the increasingly popular concept known as “zero sugar socializing.”

Zero sugar socializing refers to the contemporary youth maintaining a certain level of distance and independence in their social interactions, eschewing overreliance on others for emotional validation. Just like zero-sugar foods, this style of socializing emphasizes a non-sticky, non-dependent approach.

According to the Insights Report on Social Trends in 2024 released by the Just So Soul Research Institute earlier this year, contemporary young individuals typically have around two close friends. When asked about their ideal state of socializing with friends, 54% of young people chose “frequent contact but also having their own space for solitude.”

In the “zero sugar socializing” circle of post-1995 individual Huang Zixi, she maintains a relaxed and unrestrictive relationship with her designer friends. “We don’t meet up frequently or engage in obligatory social events. Instead, we choose to share our design works, insights, and challenges through online group chats or regular offline gatherings,” Huang shared.

In moments of loneliness, digital characters like virtual friends and idols become new companions and channels of communication for netizens. “The popularity of virtual friends and idols stems from their down-to-earth nature, serving as ‘spiritual netizens’ or ‘spiritual companions,’” wrote netizen Xiaoqiaoliushui in a comment.

“Embracing zero sugar socializing is an expression of young people’s pursuit of self-fulfillment,” noted Wang Zhongwu, a sociology professor at Shandong University. In the midst of busy study or work schedules, contemporary youth are inclined towards friendships with low social costs, characterized by a relaxed and trendy atmosphere. The emergence of “zero sugar socializing” emphasizes autonomy and independence in social interactions, transforming socializing into a burden-free life experience.

“Zero sugar socializing doesn’t equate to ‘zero socializing’ but rather encourages young people to prioritize autonomy and independence in their interactions,” said Wang.

He believes that zero sugar socializing aligns with the trends of societal development and caters to the practical needs of modern social interactions. Nevertheless, while enjoying the ease and freedom brought by zero sugar socializing, young individuals should not overlook the pleasures and significance of traditional social interactions.

（Tang Li)