With the European Commission amending its current steviol glycocide specifications on 3 November 2016, Cargill says European food and beverage companies will be able to rely on the broader portfolio of its ViaTech stevia sweeteners to help them achieve optimal sweetness and dramatic sugar reductions.

Under the existing legislation, sweeteners made from steviol glycosides need to consist of at least 75% stevioside and/or rebaudioside A (Reb A), limiting the ViaTech sweetener options available to food and beverage manufacturers in Europe. The updated legislation removes the restriction and allows any combination of the 11 approved steviol glycosides as alternatives to Reb A as the predominant components.

"Cargill has extensive sweetness expertise, including a deep knowledge of the steviol glycosides and the development capabilities needed to find the best tasting solutions for customers," comments Andy Ohmes, global product line manager for Cargill. "The updated legislation opens doors for European food and food beverage companies who want to reduce calories without compromising a great taste."