Stevia revolution?

An interesting article in The Grocer recently (10 September) about the imminent introduction to the UK of chocolate made with stevia instead of sugar. The big question seems to be, will this prompt a chocolate revolution or not? 

Sugar prices are on the up, as is the price of chocolate. Stevia is a natural sweetener – a herbal extract, which has been used in soft drinks for some time. Whilst it is more costly than sugar to use, the end product can then proudly boast the “sugar free” status. Will it work for the Brits? 

Search on Google and the chocolate is out there. The Cavalier Company is launching its range into the UK early next year, to be distributed by House of Sarrunds and they are understandably predicting a “revolution”. 

Mintel on the other hand are less sure. They feel that consumers are reacting with portion control rather than seeking chocolate with health claims, pointing to Switzerland, where chocolate made with stevia has been available for some years. 

Time will tell. I for one would be interested to see what difference stevia makes to the TASTE of chocolate, which is certainly a priority in my book. 

Sweet Retailing will of course report on any sugar free developments and product launches that we learn about in due course.