FAIRFIELD, N.J.Stevia sales are predicted to increase from the current $304 million market value to $409 million by 2016, according to Zenith International.

Current worldwide sales reached 4,100 tonnes in 2013 increasing by 6.5% from the previous year.

As rising levels of obesity and diabetes continue to generate headlines, there has never been so much emphasis on reducing our caloric intake as well as consuming healthier foods and beverages," said Davide Deiana, senior market intelligence consultant, Zenith. After persistent efforts by key producers, which led to widespread legislative approval, stevia is finally being recognized for its natural, zero-calorie, sweetening properties."

A&B Ingredients anticipates the rapid rise in their product Stevia One.

"We see the continued rise in popularity of stevia among consumers as they demand healthier, more natural high quality, high purity food and beverages produced in harmony with nature, said Gil Bakal, marketing director, A&B Ingredients.

"The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2030 obesity will be the primary cause of human sickness and mortality," Baka said. "Products such as Stevia, a natural non-caloric sweetener, can be expected to play a major role in controlling obesity related problems, such as diabetes and heart diseases." 

Last year A&B Ingredients announced that it will exclusively represent Stevia One within the food and beverage industries in the U.S. and Canada.