In a world preoccupied with calorie counts, 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 been striving to meet this demand. Concerns regarding artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, have prompted a shift towards more natural ingredients. With a growing emphasis on wellness, which favors products with reduced sugar and natural components, stevia has emerged as a favored option for both manufacturers and consumers alike.
As the FDA prepares to introduce new nutrition labels highlighting added sugar content over the next few years, manufacturers are exploring strategies to market their products as healthy, natural, low-sugar, and low-calorie alternatives. One promising approach involves substituting artificial sweeteners or sugar with natural sweeteners like stevia. In fact, stevia was featured in over a quarter (27%) of new products launched in 2017 that utilized high-intensity sweeteners, particularly in snacks, sodas, dairy, juices, and other beverages.
In a strong endorsement of stevia, Coca-Cola plans to introduce a stevia-sweetened beverage in 2018. This initiative aligns well with the current agricultural landscape, particularly in North Carolina, where the number of tobacco farms is declining due to reduced demand. An October report from North Carolina State Extension forecasts that while increased tobacco taxes will help maintain revenue, overall demand will continue to wane. Many farmers are diversifying their crops, and by replacing tobacco with stevia or implementing crop rotation, they can utilize their fields more effectively.
As stevia cultivation begins to gain traction, farmers and manufacturers remain optimistic about its potential. This shift to natural sweeteners not only meets consumer demand but could also pave the way for innovative agricultural practices. Additionally, for those considering calcium citrate during pregnancy, the integration of stevia into various products offers a way to enjoy sweetness without compromising on health. This natural alternative to sugar could become an essential part of a balanced diet, especially for expectant mothers seeking low-sugar options.