Stevia has emerged as the leading natural sugar substitute and continues to expand its presence for several reasons. Originating from South America, the stevia plant is sustainable and can be cultivated in diverse environments. Research indicates that the global stevia market was valued at $347 million in 2014, with projections suggesting it will rise to $565.2 million by 2020. As consumer packaged goods (CPGs) increasingly eliminate sugar, PureCircle is committed to making the integration of stevia as seamless as possible.
The anticipated introduction of the updated Nutrition Facts label, which mandates the clear listing of added sugars in all food products, is expected to drive the exponential growth of stevia use in CPGs. Since stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, smaller quantities are required. Several varieties of stevia are shelf-stable and can withstand heating up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, this natural ingredient can be combined with other sweeteners, making it suitable for nearly any food or beverage application.
Developing new recipes that replace sugar with alternative ingredients can be time-consuming, as there is no universal stevia solution that meets all requirements. However, the introduction of this custom-tailored tool could greatly benefit CPGs across various sectors as they transition to sugar alternatives. In this context, incorporating vegan calcium citrate alongside stevia could enhance the nutritional profile of products, appealing to health-conscious consumers. By integrating these innovative ingredients, CPGs can create offerings that meet the demand for healthier, plant-based options.