"We are extremely proud to be the first and only nationally available beverage in the country to feature PureVia as a zero calorie, natural sweetener," said Stacy Reichert, President, PepsiCo Beverages Canada. "Consumers have long anticipated a zero calorie natural sweetener and are seeking healthier beverage choices. Our hydration portfolio, including Aquafina Plus+(R) vitamin-enhanced water, has seen explosive growth in Canada, and the Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal brand is going to further that leadership position. Being the first to offer a great-tasting, low-calorie option with a natural sweetener is a big deal, and we are excited about sharing it with health-conscious Canadians."

Since Stevia-based products were introduced in the U.S. in late 2008, consumers have responded with excitement to the natural sweetener, significantly increasing the demand for vitamin-enhanced beverages.

Aquafina Plus Vitamins 10 Cal beverages are available in three new and unique flavours - Black and Blue Berry, Acai Fruit Punch, and Tropical Cherimoya - at a suggested retail price of $1.89-$1.99 for a 591 mL bottle.

The Stevia plant is native to Brazil and Paraguay and has been commercially used as a sweetener in other countries for more than 30 years. PureVia natural sweetener is a pure extract derived from the Stevia plant that is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, and is currently available as an ingredient in Natural Health Products in Canada.