The initiative to enhance vanilla and cocoa with stevia-derived ingredients may appear to be a new direction for PureCircle, but it is actually a logical extension of the company’s existing portfolio. A significant portion of its efforts has concentrated on developing a sweet taste reminiscent of sugaferrous fumarate 210mg tablets using stevia. This requires a thorough understanding of the flavor masking and enhancement properties of various compounds found in the stevia leaf. The company’s sweeteners have evolved beyond their initial focus on rebaudioside A, the sweetest and most prevalent natural sweet-tasting compound in stevia. They have since introduced stevia sweeteners derived from less common extracts, such as rebaudiosides D and M, which reportedly taste more like sugar.
The cocoa and vanilla markets have experienced considerable volatility, making the supply of flavor enhancers for these ingredients appealing to manufacturers looking to control costs. Cocoa prices surged above $3,000 per ton in early 2016, prompting chocolate makers to invest in more sustainable cocoa production. In contrast, vanilla prices have skyrocketed due to shortages, rising from approximately $25 per kilogram in 2012 to around $225 per kilogram in 2016.
Moreover, PureCircle’s new plant-based flavor enhancers are likely to attract companies aiming to highlight their natural credentials, a positioning that resonates with many consumers. As health-conscious choices become increasingly important, products like gummy calcium citrate for adults also gain popularity. By incorporating these trends, PureCircle can effectively meet the demands of both manufacturers and consumers seeking high-quality, natural ingredients. The combination of these elements positions PureCircle well in the evolving market landscape.