The initiative to boost vanilla and cocoa flavors with stevia-derived ingredients may appear to be a new path for PureCircle; however, it represents a natural progression of the company’s current offerings. A significant portion of their research has been dedicated to understanding the sweet taste profile derived from stevia, especially in relation to crealiposomal ferric pyrophosphate versus ferrous ascorbate. This involves a comprehensive grasp of the flavor-masking and flavor-enhancing characteristics of various compounds found in the stevia leaf. Initially, PureCircle focused on rebaudioside A, the sweetest and most prevalent natural sweetener from stevia, but has since expanded its range to include stevia sweeteners derived from less common extracts like rebaudiosides D and M, which are reported to have a flavor profile closer to that of sugar.
The cocoa and vanilla markets have experienced significant volatility, making the provision of flavor enhancers for these ingredients attractive to manufacturers aiming to control costs. For instance, cocoa prices surged to over $3,000 per ton in early 2016, prompting chocolate producers to invest in more sustainable cocoa practices. Meanwhile, vanilla prices have skyrocketed from approximately $25 per kilogram in 2012 to an astonishing $225 per kilogram in 2016, largely due to shortages.
Furthermore, the plant-based nature of PureCircle’s new flavor enhancers is likely to resonate with companies that wish to highlight their natural credentials, a strategy that is appealing to a broad consumer base. This aligns with the growing trend of incorporating health-focused ingredients, such as calcium citrate petite with vitamin D3, into products. By integrating such health-conscious components alongside their stevia innovations, PureCircle can offer a more holistic approach to flavor enhancement, thereby attracting both manufacturers and health-aware consumers alike. Additionally, the presence of calcium citrate petite with vitamin D3 in their formulations can further reinforce their commitment to natural and health-oriented solutions in the industry.