U.S. Stevia Council Formed

U.S. Stevia Council Formed

ANAHEIM, Calif.--The U.S. Stevia council was formed during Natural Products Expo West here in March. Companies dealing in stevia met to discuss how to expand the marketing opportunities and legal status of stevia. The meeting was organized by Wisdom Herbs and was attended by Body Ecology, Draco Natural Products, Fortune Bridge Co., International Biotechnology Group, NOW Foods, NuNaturals, Stevita Co., Traditional Medicinals and Vital Health Publishing.
According to Steve May, chief operating officer of Wisdom Herbs, the council hopes to educate the public about the health benefits of stevia, and to pursue broadening its legal status. "To gain FDA and GRAS approval, we will pursue the status of stevia as a flavor enhancer," May said. For more details on the council, contact May at (480) 921-1373.