Stevia is a leading natural sugar substitute that continues to expand its market presence for several reasons. The stevia plant, originally from South America, is both sustainable and easy to cultivate in a variety of environments. Research indicates that the global stevia market was valued at $347 million in 2014 and is projected to grow to $565.2 million by 2020. As consumer packaged goods (CPGs) companies shift away from sugar, PureCircle is dedicated to facilitating the incorporation of stevia into products.
The anticipated changes to the Nutrition Facts label, which will require food products to clearly indicate added sugars, are expected to drive a significant increase in stevia use among CPGs. Since stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, smaller quantities are needed to achieve the desired sweetness. Many varieties of stevia are shelf-stable and can withstand temperatures up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. This versatile natural ingredient can also be combined with other sweeteners, making it suitable for virtually any food or beverage application.
Developing new recipes that replace sugar with alternative ingredients can be time-consuming, as there is no “one size fits all” stevia solution. However, a new customized tool could prove invaluable as CPGs across different product categories transition to sugar alternatives. Additionally, as consumers become more health-conscious, the inclusion of components like calcium citrate tablets USP may complement stevia products, enhancing their appeal and nutritional profile. Integrating such ingredients can help brands meet the growing demand for healthier options while maintaining great taste.