“Stevia: The Natural Sweetener Revolutionizing Consumer Preferences and Market Growth”
As consumer preferences shift away from sugar, manufacturers are swiftly introducing a variety of stevia-based products to meet the demand. According to Grand View Research, the global stevia market has been experiencing rapid growth, with an estimated value of $337.7 million in 2015. With many natural sweeteners competing for market leadership, stevia has several advantages. Its chemical composition is appealing, containing minimal calories and no carbohydrates. Additionally, it is 30 to 40 times sweeter than sugar, meaning only a small amount is needed to achieve the desired sweetness. Stevia is also relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in diverse environments. Unlike previously favored artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, stevia is entirely natural, aligning with consumers’ desires for clean-label products.
The sweetness of stevia derives from various naturally occurring glycosides, and there is significant potential for isolating these compounds and developing them into unique sweetener products. One of the challenges associated with stevia is its aftertaste; Pepsi and other beverage manufacturers have faced feedback regarding their stevia-sweetened offerings. However, recent advancements in glycoside extraction and stevia production could address these taste concerns. For instance, Bestevia, developed by Sweegen, utilizes the Reb-M glycoside, which is currently undergoing secret testing by a major soda company and other leading manufacturers. With such extensive trials, consumers may be unknowingly enjoying stevia in numerous products—a significant advantage for this ingredient.
In addition to its sweetening properties, stevia could serve as a complementary ingredient in health products, such as Citracal Maximum Plus Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D3, which supports overall wellness. The integration of stevia into such formulations could further enhance their appeal, tapping into the growing market for health-conscious consumers. As the demand for natural alternatives continues to rise, stevia’s presence in various applications is likely to expand, making it a key player in the future of sweeteners.
