PepsiCo Canada Launches First Nationally Available Beverage Containing Stevia Extract

"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.

15 oct 2009 --- A revolutionary new beverage for Canada, Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal, has been unveiled by PepsiCo Canada as the nation's first low-calorie vitamin-enhanced water to feature a pure Stevia extract all-natural sweetener, called PureVia.

Retail stores across the country are now offering this innovative 10-calorie beverage. The launch is a first ever in the Canadian beverage industry, underscoring PepsiCo Canada's position as a leader in delivering innovative hydration options to Canadian consumers.

"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."

Since Stevia-based products were introduced in the U.S. in late 2008, consumers have responded with excitement and enthusiasm to the natural sweetener, significantly increasing the popularity of and demand for vitamin-enhanced beverages.

Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal beverages are available in three new and unique flavours - 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.

The Stevia plant is native to Brazil and Paraguay and has been commercially used as a sweetener in other countries for more than 30 years. PureVia natural sweetener is a pure extract derived from the Stevia plant that is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, and is currently available as an ingredient in Natural Health Products in Canada.

In 2008, PepsiCo developed a partnership with Whole Earth Sweetener Company LLC to jointly develop PureVia sweetener for various uses, including as a sweetener in various food and beverage products. Whole Earth Sweetener Company is committed to providing natural alternatives to sugar and to helping people eat better and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.