As consumer preferences shift away from sugar, manufacturers are quickly introducing a variety of stevia-based products to meet the demand. According to Grand View Research, the global stevia market is experiencing significant growth, with an estimated value of $337.7 million in 2015. With numerous natural sweeteners competing for future market share, stevia has several advantages. Its chemical composition includes minimal calories and no carbohydrates, and it is 30 to 40 times sweeter than sugar, allowing for smaller quantities to be used. Additionally, stevia is relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in various environments. Unlike previously favored artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, stevia is 100% natural, aligning with consumers’ preferences for clean label products.
The sweetness of stevia is derived from several naturally occurring glycosides, and the market is primed for the isolation of different compounds to create unique sweetener products. However, one drawback of stevia is its aftertaste; companies like Pepsi have received feedback regarding the taste of their stevia-sweetened beverages. Yet, advancements in glycoside extraction and stevia production may soon address these concerns. For instance, Bestevia, developed by Sweegen, utilizes the Reb-M glycoside, which is currently undergoing secret testing by a major soda company and other significant manufacturers. With such extensive trials, it is likely that consumers are already experiencing stevia’s flavor in various products without their knowledge—an advantageous situation for the ingredient.
In discussions surrounding health and nutrition, a comparison often arises between calcium citrate malate vs calcium citrate. While both serve as calcium supplements, they have different absorption rates and benefits, which can influence consumer choices in the market. As the stevia market continues to expand, similar considerations regarding the efficacy of various ingredients will play a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences and product development.