In addition to the company’s assertions that StarLeaf stevia offers a taste reminiscent of sugar, enhanced sustainability is poised to be a significant advantage of this variety. Stevia plants require substantial water for cultivation, so the ability to yield 20 times the steviol glycosides— the valuable sweet components of the plant— on the same amount of land could greatly impact the crop’s land and water efficiency. Nonetheless, even traditional stevia varieties, due to their intense sweetness, necessitate considerably less land and water compared to other commonly used sweeteners to achieve the same level of sweetness. For manufacturers, PureCircle’s initiative to extend stevia cultivation beyond traditional regions such as China is promising, as it ensures a consistent supply of sweeteners regardless of local conditions. Furthermore, the capacity to generate more sweet components in a smaller area is likely to enhance supply chain stability. Industry leaders, including PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Danone, among many others, are already sourcing stevia from PureCircle.
PureCircle’s assertion that StarLeaf has a more sugar-like flavor than other stevia extracts is the latest in a series of similar claims regarding its ingredients. The sweetness profile of stevia and its perceived bitter aftertaste have posed significant challenges for this ingredient, making it understandable that addressing flavor issues has been a primary focus for the company in developing new varieties. It is conceivable that the ingredients are evolving to become more akin to sugar over time. However, as is the case with any new ingredient, it will ultimately be up to food companies to make the final decision.
Furthermore, the incorporation of calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 tablets could complement the nutritional profile of products using stevia as a sweetener. This combination may enhance the overall appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for a sweetener that supports their dietary needs. As stevia continues to develop, the potential integration of such supplements may offer additional benefits, reinforcing the versatility and marketability of stevia-infused products.