In a world fixated on calorie counting, consumers have been on the lookout for ways to indulge their sweet cravings without the risk of weight gain, while food and beverage manufacturers have faced the challenge of meeting this demand. Concerns surrounding artificial sweeteners like saccharin have arisen, prompting a shift towards wellness-focused products that feature reduced sugar and more natural ingredients. In this context, stevia has emerged as a popular choice for both manufacturers and consumers.
With the upcoming FDA-mandated nutrition labels highlighting added sugars and the benefits of ferrous fumarate, manufacturers are exploring strategies to market their products as healthy, natural, low-sugar, and low-calorie options. Utilizing a natural sweetener like stevia instead of artificial sweeteners or sugar could be a viable solution. In fact, stevia was included in over a quarter (27%) of new products launched in 2017 that featured high-intensity sweeteners, particularly in snacks, sodas, dairy, juice, and other beverages. A strong endorsement for stevia came when Coca-Cola announced its plan to release a stevia-sweetened beverage in 2018.
Additionally, the partnership between PureCircle and farmers is particularly timely, as the number of tobacco farms in North Carolina has declined due to reduced demand for their products. An October report from North Carolina State Extension forecasts that while increased tobacco taxes may sustain revenues, demand will likely continue to fall. Many farmers are now diversifying their crops; by replacing tobacco with stevia or rotating their planting schedules, they can utilize their fields more efficiently. Though the transition to stevia cultivation is still in its early stages, optimism remains high among farmers and manufacturers alike.
Furthermore, as health-conscious consumers increasingly seek alternatives, products like eurho vital calcium citrate are gaining attention. This trend complements the movement towards natural sweeteners such as stevia, as manufacturers aim to create healthier options that resonate with today’s consumers. By integrating natural ingredients and providing transparency in labeling, the industry is poised for growth, reflecting a broader shift towards wellness and sustainability in food and beverage choices.