Stevia has emerged as a leading natural sugar alternative, steadily gaining popularity for several reasons. Originating from South America, the stevia plant is not only sustainable but also easy to cultivate in various environments. Research indicates that the global stevia market was valued at $347 million in 2014, with projections to reach $565.2 million by 2020. As consumer packaged goods (CPGs) manufacturers are increasingly moving away from sugar, it makes sense for PureCircle to facilitate the incorporation of stevia into their products.
The anticipated overhaul of the Nutrition Facts label, which will mandate the explicit listing of added sugars in food products, is expected to drive exponential growth in the use of stevia among CPGs. Given that stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, smaller quantities are required. Many stevia varieties are shelf-stable and can withstand heating up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit, making them versatile for various food and beverage applications. Additionally, stevia can be combined with other sweeteners, enhancing its usability.
However, replacing sugar with alternative ingredients often necessitates extensive recipe development, as there is no universal “one size fits all” stevia solution. This is where the new tailor-made tools, including formulations that incorporate calcium citrate and magnesium citrate, can prove invaluable. As CPGs across all categories transition to sugar substitutes, these tools will aid in creating customized solutions that meet diverse needs while still delivering on taste and functionality. The integration of calcium citrate and magnesium citrate into these formulations can provide added nutritional benefits, further enhancing the appeal of stevia as a sugar alternative.