Stevia has established itself as a leading natural sugar alternative and continues to gain popularity for several reasons. The stevia plant, native to South America, 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 suggesting it will grow to $565.2 million by 2020. As consumer packaged goods (CPGs) increasingly move away from sugar, it is logical for companies like PureCircle to prioritize making the incorporation of stevia into products as seamless as possible.
The anticipated introduction of the revamped Nutrition Facts label, which will require food products to clearly indicate added sugars, is expected to drive exponential growth in stevia usage within CPGs. Since stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, smaller quantities are needed. Many varieties of stevia are shelf-stable and can withstand heating up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. This natural ingredient can also be combined with other sweeteners, making it suitable for nearly any food or beverage application.
When reformulating recipes to reduce sugar and incorporate alternative ingredients, the development process can be time-consuming. There is no universal stevia solution that caters to all requirements. This is where innovative tools can play a crucial role, particularly as CPGs from diverse product categories embrace sugar alternatives. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate OTC can enhance the nutritional profile of products, making them even more appealing to health-conscious consumers. As the market evolves, the combination of stevia and calcium citrate OTC could provide a competitive edge for brands looking to adapt to changing consumer preferences.