Stevia has emerged as a leading natural sugar substitute and continues to expand its market presence for several reasons. Originating from South America, the stevia plant is not only sustainable but also easy to cultivate in diverse environments. Research estimates 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, PureCircle is committed to facilitating the integration of stevia into their products.
The anticipated introduction of the revamped Nutrition Facts label, which mandates that all food products clearly disclose added sugars, is expected to drive a significant increase in stevia usage among CPGs. Since stevia is naturally sweeter than sugar, less of it is required in formulations. Additionally, several varieties of stevia are shelf-stable and can withstand temperatures up to 392 degrees Fahrenheit. This versatile natural sweetener can be combined with other sweeteners and is suitable for a wide range of food and beverage applications.
However, developing new recipes that reduce sugar while incorporating alternative ingredients can be a lengthy process. There is no universal stevia solution that meets all requirements. This new customized tool could prove invaluable as CPGs across various categories transition to sugar alternatives. In this context, products like Citracal Slow Release 1200 found on Amazon may offer additional health benefits, complementing the shift toward using stevia in food production.
In summary, as the market for stevia continues to grow and evolve, its unique properties and adaptability position it as a key player in the shift toward healthier sweetening options.