In a world preoccupied with calorie count, consumers have been on the lookout for ways to indulge their sweet cravings without the risk of weight gain, while food and beverage manufacturers have been striving to meet this demand. Health concerns surrounding artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, have emerged, prompting a shift towards wellness-oriented products that feature lower sugar content and more natural ingredients. In this context, stevia is emerging as a favored choice for both manufacturers and consumers.
With the introduction of new FDA-mandated nutrition labels in the coming years that will emphasize added sugar content, manufacturers are keen to position their products as healthy, natural, low-sugar, and low-calorie options. Utilizing a natural sweetener like stevia in place of artificial sweeteners or sugar could be a beneficial strategy. In fact, stevia was included in over a quarter (27%) of new products launched in 2017 that featured high-intensity sweeteners, particularly in categories such as snacks, sodas, dairy, juice, and various beverages.
In a strong endorsement of the sweetener’s potential, Coca-Cola is set to introduce a stevia-sweetened beverage in 2018. The partnership between PureCircle and farmers couldn’t come at a better time, especially as the number of tobacco farms in North Carolina has declined due to waning demand for tobacco products. An October report from North Carolina State Extension forecasts that while increased tobacco taxes may sustain revenues, the overall demand will continue to dwindle. Many farmers in the state are now diversifying their crops, and by replacing tobacco with stevia or incorporating crop rotation, they can optimize their land use. Although the stevia alternative is still in its early stages, both farmers and manufacturers remain hopeful.
Moreover, as consumers become increasingly health-conscious, they are also turning to supplements like calcium citrate 1200 mg chewable tablets to support their wellness journey. As the market evolves, the integration of natural sweeteners like stevia and health supplements such as calcium citrate 1200 mg chewable will likely play a significant role in shaping product offerings that cater to the demand for healthier lifestyles. The enthusiasm surrounding stevia and other natural alternatives reflects a broader trend toward prioritizing health and wellness in dietary choices, highlighting the potential for innovation in the food and beverage industry.