Stevia in Food Manufacturing: Key Applications and Uses

• Desired sweetness intensity
• Flavour profile
• Type of food or beverage
• Other ingredients in the formulation
• Processing conditions
• Product format
• Intended serving size
• Regulatory requirements

It is also important to recognise that Stevia does not necessarily perform every functional role that sugar performs in a recipe. In products such as baked goods, sugar can contribute to texture, bulk, browning and structure. Manufacturers may therefore need to adjust other parts of the formulation when using a high-intensity sweetener.

Stevia Applications in Beverages

Beverages are an important application area for Stevia. Drink manufacturers can use sweetening ingredients in products where the desired sweetness needs to be achieved as part of a carefully balanced flavour system.

Flavoured Beverages

Stevia can be considered in flavoured beverage formulations where manufacturers need a concentrated sweetening ingredient.

Product developers need to evaluate sweetness alongside flavours, acids and other ingredients to achieve the desired finished product profile.

Soft Drinks and Ready-to-Drink Products

Stevia may also be considered in soft drinks and ready-to-drink beverage formulations. The exact formulation approach will depend on the product type and the characteristics the manufacturer wants to achieve.

For commercial production, manufacturers should conduct appropriate product trials before finalising the formulation.

Tea, Coffee and Homemade Drinks

Stevia is not limited to industrial production. Individual consumers can also use suitable Stevia products in beverages such as tea and coffee.