Stevia is becoming increasingly popular as consumers grow wary of sugar and show a greater interest in natural alternatives. According to Grand View Research, the global stevia market is experiencing rapid growth, estimated at $337.7 million in 2015. With a projected annual growth rate of nearly 6%, the market could reach $556.7 million by 2024. This natural sweetener has gained traction as a sugar substitute because of its origin. Consumers generally favor stevia over artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin. In fact, the Global Stevia Institute found that half of U.S. parents are willing to purchase beverages sweetened with stevia for their children.
Manufacturers have swiftly developed various stevia-based products to cater to the cravings of consumers moving away from sugar and high-fructose corn syrup. In 2015, nearly 35% of total stevia volume was allocated to beverages. Data from Innova Market Insights indicated that 6% of new soda launches last year incorporated stevia as an ingredient. However, soft drink companies have encountered challenges with stevia’s aftertaste when crafting new formulations. This is why PepsiCo is particularly interested in Reb M, which is noted for being less bitter and having a sweeter taste compared to other steviol glycosides.
PepsiCo has been actively revamping its product lineup to align with healthier consumer preferences. Last year, the company committed to ensuring that at least two-thirds of its global beverage volume would consist of drinks containing 100 calories or fewer from added sugar per 12-ounce serving by 2025. These reformulations can be achieved by substituting sugar and corn syrup with zero-calorie stevia. A company spokesperson informed Food Dive that low- and no-calorie beverages now account for nearly half of PepsiCo’s sales volume, a significant increase from 24% two decades ago. The rise in stevia usage has been a major factor, especially in products like Pepsi True and Tropicana’s Trop 50, as well as newer offerings like IZZE Fusions and Lemon Lemon.
The outlook for stevia as a natural sugar alternative seems bright, at least until another natural sweetener emerges to make a significant impact. Ingredient and food manufacturers are exploring numerous other substances, including monk fruit, date paste, and sweet potatoes. Among these, one ingredient could potentially become the next popular natural sweetener, challenging stevia’s current market position.
Incorporating products like Solaray Calcium Citrate 1000 mg into a balanced diet could also complement the growing trend of health-conscious choices. As consumers continue to prioritize natural ingredients and healthier options, both stevia and supplements like Solaray Calcium Citrate 1000 mg may play vital roles in shaping future dietary preferences.