European Union governments have authorized used of stevia sweeteners in some foods, and EU-wide use of the plant-based natural sweeteners could be approved by European Parliament by the end of 2011,
reports
Reuters.
Earlier this year, Cargill announced plans to partner with
Associated British Foods to launch Europe's first natural tabletop sweetener in Britian once stevia has been given approval.
Zenith International estimates that global sales of stevia-based
products will reach $825 million by 2014.