High Brew is not the first company to revert to sugar from stevia after receiving a tepid response from consumers. One of the most notable failures with stevia occurred when Coca-Cola returned to sugar for Vitaminwater after customers voiced their dissatisfaction on social media regarding its new sugar-stevia blend. Similarly, Sierra Mist faced backlash when it introduced a recipe that included stevia. Despite initial excitement, Coke Life has experienced dwindling sales in the UK.
While some might view these instances as indicators of stevia’s decline, the sales of this plant-derived sweetener continue to grow. Data from Innova Market Insights shows that 6% of new soda launches last year incorporated stevia as an ingredient. With major market players investing in stevia-sweetened products worldwide, there are different ways to use the sweetener that resonate with consumers.
International successes include Coca-Cola’s reformulation of regular Sprite in France, the UK, and Ireland, which combined sugar and stevia to achieve a 30% calorie reduction and a 3% increase in sales during its first year in the UK. Similarly, sweetener blends have reduced calories in the Nestea brand in France and the Glaceau Vitamin Water brand in both France and the UK.
Conversely, major beverage companies have found it more challenging to persuade American consumers. Coke Life and Pepsi True have not performed well in the U.S. market. High Brew Coffee’s shift from stevia to sugar highlights the taste challenges that manufacturers encounter when formulating with stevia. Nevertheless, U.S. stevia sales continue to climb, driven by beverages and an expansion into other food categories. As food manufacturers become more adept at utilizing the sweetener and recognize consumer demand for lower-sugar products, growth is anticipated in the U.S., despite recent obstacles.
Additionally, when discussing the importance of nutrition, calcium citrate kya hota hai, or what calcium citrate is, may come to mind as a vital component in various dietary supplements, further emphasizing the ongoing trend towards healthier choices across different food products. As companies continue to innovate and adapt, the relationship between taste, nutrition, and consumer preferences will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sweetener options, including stevia.