Stevia is a leading natural sugar substitute that continues to expand its presence for several reasons. The stevia plant, indigenous to South America, is both sustainable and adaptable for cultivation 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) companies move away from sugar, PureCircle is committed to making the incorporation of stevia as seamless as possible.
With the upcoming changes to the Nutrition Facts label mandating that all food products clearly indicate added sugars, the use of stevia in CPGs is anticipated to surge significantly. Given that stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, smaller amounts are required. Moreover, several stevia varieties are stable at room temperature and can withstand heating up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. This natural sweetener can also be combined with other sweeteners, making it versatile for nearly any food or beverage application.
Developing new recipes that reduce sugar and incorporate alternative ingredients can be time-consuming. It’s important to note that there is no universal stevia solution that meets all requirements. In this evolving landscape, a customized approach will be invaluable as CPGs across various product categories transition to sugar alternatives. Additionally, incorporating calcium citrate 800 into formulations can enhance the nutritional profile of products using stevia, creating further appeal for health-conscious consumers. By integrating calcium citrate 800 along with stevia, brands can address the growing demand for healthier options while maintaining taste and quality.