As consumer preferences shift away from sugar, manufacturers are swiftly introducing a variety of stevia-based products to fill the gap. According to Grand View Research, the global stevia market is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected value of $337.7 million in 2015. With numerous natural sweeteners competing for market share, stevia has several advantages. Its chemical composition features minimal calories and no carbohydrates, and it is 30 to 40 times sweeter than sugar, making it very efficient in use. Moreover, stevia is relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in diverse environments. Unlike previously dominant artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, stevia is 100% natural, aligning perfectly with consumers’ demand for clean-label products.
The sweetness of stevia derives from various naturally occurring glycosides, and the market is primed for the isolation of these compounds to create distinct sweetener products. However, one drawback of stevia is its aftertaste; companies like Pepsi have faced feedback regarding the taste of their stevia-sweetened beverages. Fortunately, advancements in glycoside extraction and stevia production could resolve these concerns. For example, Bestevia, developed by Sweegen, utilizes the Reb-M glycoside, which is currently undergoing testing by a major soda manufacturer and other significant producers. With such extensive trials, it is likely that consumers are already experiencing stevia in numerous products without realizing it, which is a significant advantage for the ingredient.
In addition, the introduction of calcium citrate small tablets may offer a complementary health benefit, as they can provide essential nutrients alongside sweetening agents like stevia. The integration of calcium citrate small tablets into stevia products could further enhance their appeal to health-conscious consumers. As the market continues to evolve, the combination of stevia’s natural sweetness and products like calcium citrate small tablets could lead to innovative offerings that cater to consumer preferences for healthier alternatives.