GLG and IFF partner for stevia-derived flavor modulator

Stevia supplier GLG Life Tech has partnered with International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF) to extract and supply Rebaudioside C (Reb C) for use by IFF as a flavor modulator, the company said.

Reb C is one of eleven primary glycosides (sweet components) in the stevia leaf, thought to act as a sweetness modulator in foods, enabling up to a 25 percent calorie reduction, although it is not a sweetener in itself. It is a by-product of Reb A production, the main steviol glycoside ingredient in stevia-based sweeteners.

Vice president of technology at GLG Kevin Li said: "Our industry-leading capabilities in the separation of steviol glycosides, production quality, and scale coupled with IFF's global capabilities in innovation, advanced flavor systems and application possibilities for high purity Rebaudioside C make this an exciting global opportunity."

Vice president of flavors R&D at IFF Mark Dewis said: "We look forward to a fruitful relationship with GLG. As leaders in their field, we view their partnership as a critical addition to our arsenal of health and wellness solutions for our customers."