Stevia is a leading natural sugar substitute and continues to gain popularity for several reasons. Originating from South America, the stevia plant is sustainable and can be cultivated 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 move away from sugar, it is logical that PureCircle would strive to simplify the incorporation of stevia into their products.
The use of stevia in CPGs is expected to grow exponentially, particularly with the upcoming changes to the Nutrition Facts label that will mandate the explicit listing of added sugars in food products. Since stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, smaller quantities are required. Many stevia varieties are shelf-stable and can withstand temperatures up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. This natural ingredient can be mixed with other sweeteners and applied in nearly any food or beverage context.
When reducing sugar and introducing alternative ingredients, developing new recipes can be a time-consuming process, as there is no universal solution that meets all requirements. This new bespoke approach could be a significant advantage for CPGs across various product categories as they transition to sugar alternatives. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like is caltrate calcium citrate can further enhance the nutritional profile of these products, making them more appealing to health-conscious consumers.
In summary, the rise of stevia and the integration of is caltrate calcium citrate into food formulations represent a shift towards healthier options in the market, and this trend is likely to continue as CPGs adapt to changing consumer preferences.