Stevia is gaining popularity as consumers become increasingly skeptical of sugar and seek natural alternatives. Grand View Research reports that the global stevia market is swiftly growing, with an estimated value of $337.7 million in 2015. With an anticipated annual growth rate of nearly 6%, this market could reach $556.7 million by 2024. Stevia has emerged as a favored sugar substitute due to its natural origins. Consumers generally prefer stevia over artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin. In fact, the Global Stevia Institute found that half of U.S. parents are willing to purchase beverages sweetened with stevia for their children.
Manufacturers have quickly responded by developing various stevia-based products to cater to consumers moving away from sugar and high-fructose corn syrup. In 2015, almost 35% of the total stevia volume was used in beverages. According to Innova Market Insights, 6% of new soda launches last year incorporated stevia as an ingredient. However, soft drink companies face challenges with stevia’s aftertaste when creating new formulations. This is why PepsiCo is particularly interested in Reb M, which has a less bitter and more sugar-like taste compared to other steviol glycosides.
For some time, PepsiCo has been working to revamp its product lineup to appear healthier to consumers. The company has committed to ensuring that by 2025, at least two-thirds of its global beverage volume will consist of drinks with 100 calories or fewer from added sugars per 12-ounce serving. These reformulations can be achieved by substituting sugar and corn syrup with zero-calorie stevia. A company spokesperson informed Food Dive that low- and no-calorie beverages now account for nearly half of PepsiCo’s sales volume, a significant increase from 24% two decades ago. A major factor contributing to this shift is the enhanced use of stevia as a primary sweetener in products like Pepsi True, Tropicana’s Trop 50, and newer options such as IZZE Fusions and Lemon Lemon.
The future of stevia as a natural sugar alternative appears promising—unless another significant natural sweetener rises to prominence. Ingredient and food manufacturers are exploring a variety of other substances, including monk fruit, date paste, and sweet potatoes. One of these ingredients could emerge as the next trending natural sweetener, potentially disrupting stevia’s current market position.
In addition to exploring sweeteners, consumers are also looking for other health-focused products, such as calcium citrate plus chewable 500mg supplements. These supplements can complement a diet that prioritizes natural ingredients, aligning with the growing trend of health-conscious choices. As the market evolves, products like calcium citrate plus chewable 500mg could play a significant role alongside natural sweeteners like stevia, providing consumers with better options for their dietary needs.