How will Stevia change the European sugar market?
Galway Natural Health Company is one of the first companies to introduce Stevia as a sweetener for its Health food supplement Revive Q10plus. Stevia contains zero calories; it aids digestion and has many therapeutic properties.
In a move sure to shake-up the global sweetening industry, Stevia glycosides have been approved for use in foods sold in the European Union. The appropriate regulatory body the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved the use of Stevia on the 11th November 2011. A spokesperson stated it is safe for all populations to consume and is a suitable sweetening option for diabetics. It contains zero calories which will aid in weight loss.
Commonly used as a sweetener in food and beverage products throughout Americas and Asia, Stevia glycosides are sweetening compounds extracted from the leaves of Stevia Reba Diana. They are considered as natural and free of calories.
The formal EU adoption was announced on November 11 and published in the Official Journal of the EU. As early as December 2, EU consumers will be allowed to purchase products sweetened with Stevie glycosides.
"This is a major step forward for consumer choice in Europe," said Carl Horn, president of the International Stevie Council. "…These two characteristics are key attributes for consumers searching for 'better for me' products in their efforts to lead healthier life styles and manage weight. In the coming weeks and months, consumers will begin to see new products sweetened with Stevie appearing on the shelves in European supermarkets. This will include a wide range of goods, including yoghurts, cereals, beverages, soft drinks, confectionary, chocolate, and table top sweeteners."
