Givaudan seeks stevia flavor patents
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
The Swiss flavor and fragrance firm applies to patent its advancements in blocking the bitter taste receptor that rebaudioside A triggers. Givaudan's flavor-masking technology "enhances the overall taste performance ... while reducing or eliminating the inherent sensory defects," the company says Feb. 12. Givaudan has more than 20 flavor ingredients that work against rebaudioside A's bitterness. Rebaudioside A sweeteners have been available in the U.S. since December 2008, but industry observers question whether consumers will accept stevia's aftertaste in certain food and beverage applications (1"The Tan Sheet" Dec. 22, 2008, p. 8)