New Development:
- Tate & Lyle introduced a groundbreaking stevia composition called Optimizer Stevia 8.1, which promises a taste profile closest to sugar at a more affordable cost compared to other premium sweeteners.
- This versatile ingredient can be used in various applications such as nutrition bars, shakes, functional beverages, vitamin gummies, and yogurt as a high-sugar replacement.
- Amid growing concerns about sugar intake and the global trend of sugar reduction, many ingredient manufacturers are focusing on R&D for sweetener ingredients.
Insight:
Tate & Lyle utilized steviol glycosides, natural components of the stevia leaf, in their proprietary production process to create Optimizer Stevia 8.1. This underutilized part of the leaf has enabled the company to offer a cost-effective sweetener with high taste and quality standards.
Abigail Storms, senior vice president of sweeteners and fibers at Tate & Lyle, highlighted the possibilities that Optimizer Stevia 8.1 brings to food and beverage manufacturers, allowing them to achieve great taste without compromising due to cost constraints.
The production process optimizes the use of stevia leaf extract, leading to more efficient manufacturing processes and reduced costs.
By qualifying for labeling as “stevia extract,” in alignment with consumer preferences for natural sweeteners, Optimizer Stevia 8.1 addresses the demand for ingredients derived from nature.
In a strategic move, Tate & Lyle announced the acquisition of CP Kelco, a major pectin provider, to strengthen its position in the food and beverage solutions market.
Prior to this acquisition, the company also launched a campaign showcasing its expertise in texture and mouthfeel, including the introduction of a new proprietary formulation tool, Tate & Lyle Sensation.