FDBusiness.com

The global stevia market is expected to reach $556.7 million by 2024, according to a new report by Grand View Research.

Increasing penetration of stevia in the beverage segment, especially in carbonated drinks, will be a crucial factor determining the growth of the industry over the forecast period, the researchers believe. Major health concerns related to sugar consumption and the rising prices of sugar has also influenced consumers to look into various alternatives which have helped in promoting demand for the sweetener over the past few years, the report says.

Key findings from the report suggest: 

• The food sector is expected to remain a potential segment for growth owing to increasing application of stevia as a sweetening agent in chocolates, baked foods, biscuits, soft drinks, candies, soda and jams. It is expected to be the second largest segment in the global market accounting for 25.5% in terms of volume in 2015.
• The beverage segment is projected to witness the fastest volume growth at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2016 to 2024. Several soft drink manufacturers are introducing products containing stevia, for health conscious consumers and diabetic patients. Rising consumer awareness regarding the benefits of stevia on account of strategic marketing by manufacturers is expected to drive the growth of the market over the forecast period.
• Stevia is increasingly being used in herbal medicines and tonics for patients suffering from diabetes. The antibacterial and anti-fungal properties of stevia leaves is yet to realize its full potential and will remain a major factor in influencing growth over the next eight years.
• Asia Pacific is expected to foresee a volume growth at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2016 to 2024. This increase is attributed towards the growing demand from the food & beverage industry in the emerging markets including China and India. Furthermore, South Korea and Japan have a higher adoption rate of stevia-based compounds and have made a positive impact on the overall industry.