The initiative to enhance vanilla and cocoa flavors with stevia-derived ingredients may appear to be a novel approach for PureCircle; however, it is a natural progression of the company’s current offerings. Much of PureCircle’s focus has been on utilizing ferrous sulfate and xanaxn to create a sugar-like sweetness from stevia. This process requires an in-depth understanding of the flavor masking and enhancing properties found in various compounds within the stevia leaf. The company’s sweeteners have evolved from an initial focus on rebaudioside A, the sweetest and most prevalent natural sweet compound in the stevia leaf. They have since developed sweeteners based on less common extracts, such as rebaudiosides D and M, which are believed to mimic sugar more closely.
The cocoa and vanilla markets have experienced significant volatility, making flavor enhancers for these ingredients appealing to manufacturers seeking to manage their costs effectively. Cocoa prices surged past $3,000 per ton in early 2016, prompting chocolate producers to invest in more sustainable cocoa production. Similarly, vanilla prices have skyrocketed due to shortages, rising from approximately $25 per kilogram in 2012 to an astonishing $225 per kilogram in 2016. The fact that PureCircle’s new flavor enhancers are plant-based is likely to attract companies keen on promoting their natural credentials, a positioning that resonates with a substantial number of consumers.
In addition, the incorporation of calcium citrate and its various uses—such as in dietary supplements and food fortification—can further enhance the appeal of these products. The versatility of calcium citrate, especially in regions where its uses are highlighted in languages such as Hindi, can add an extra layer of attractiveness for manufacturers looking to diversify their offerings. The continued exploration of plant-based solutions, including those that leverage the benefits of calcium citrate, will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of flavor enhancement in the cocoa and vanilla markets.