PureCircle develops first stevia antioxidant for food and beverage products

Malaysian food company PureCircle has developed its first commercially viable stevia antioxidant product for the food and drink sector.

The company claimed that it is the first to extract antioxidants from stevia leafs for food and beverage products.

A unique process has been developed by PureCircle to extract and purify the plant-based antioxidant ingredient on a global scale.

PureCircle Marketing and Innovation vice-president Faith Son said: "Stevia as an antioxidant will further support beverage and food companies in providing their customers with health benefits and great-tasting products containing compounds commonly found in 'superfoods' such as fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains.

“Although it has been known that stevia plants contain antioxidants, the ability to extract is a major commercial advance.”

The new antioxidant is expected to offer a clean taste profile with a hint of sweetness, while providing food and beverage companies with new access to health and wellness ingredients for their consumers.

It is expected to be rolled out in the market by next year after obtaining approval from the US regulatory authorities.

Earlier this month, the company successfully produced StarLeaf stevia, a new stevia leaf extract.

A product of the company’s long-term investment of $100m in its PureCircle Stevia Agronomy programme, StarLeaf stevia contains more than 20 times more sugar-like steviol glycoside content compared to standard stevia leaf varieties.