16 Oct 2009 --- PureCircle has announced that PepsiCo continued the much anticipated international rollout of stevia sweetened products with a first to market launch of Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal, unveiled by PepsiCo in Canada as the nation’s first low-calorie vitamin-enhanced water to feature a pure stevia extract, all-natural sweetener.

“We are extremely proud to be the first and only nationally available beverage in the country to feature PureVia as a zero-calorie, natural sweetener,” said Stacy Reichert, president, PepsiCo Beverages Canada. “Consumers have long anticipated a zero calorie natural sweetener and are seeking healthier beverage choices. Our hydration portfolio, including Aquafina Plus+ vitamin-enhanced water, has seen explosive growth in Canada, and the Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal brand is going to further that leadership position. Being the first to offer a great-tasting, low-calorie option with a natural sweetener is a big deal, and we are excited about sharing it with health-conscious Canadians.”

Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal beverages are available in three new and unique flavors - Black and Blue Berry, Acai Fruit Punch, and Tropical Cherimoya - at a suggested retail price of $1.89-$1.99 for a 591 ml. bottle.

Peter Milsted of PureVia supplier PureCircle executive sales and marketing director said: “Increasing consumer taste approval of stevia sweetened products is making it easier for global brands to lead the way. Canada is an important food and beverage market and marks yet another step forward in global rollout of stevia sweetened products. Tabletop has already achieved record levels of penetration in the U.S. since GRAS in December. We expect to be able announce more launch announcements to follow in major markets.”

Meanwhile Fenchem announced that it is officially entering the stevia market in the USA, where the sweetener with rebiana, (Reb A) at 95 percent purity or above has been approved for food use in late 2008.

Stevia is the world's only all-natural sweetener with zero calories, zero carbohydrates and a zero glycemic index. Refined stevia products, mainly Rebaudioside A and Stevioside, are range from 300 to 400 times as sweet as sugar. Neither Reb-A or Stevioside is recognized by the body as sugar or carbohydrate, and is not metabolized by the body for energy, nor does it affect blood glucose levels.