And Purified Stevia Leaf Extract

Purified Stevia Leaf Extract is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. The sweet compounds, called steviol glycosides, are extracted from the leaves and then purified. This process results in a white, crystalline powder that is much sweeter than sugar.

Manufacturers use purified stevia leaf extract as a zero-calorie sweetener in a wide variety of foods and beverages. It is often found in diet or low-sugar products such as soft drinks, yogurts, baked goods, and tabletop sweeteners. Its intense sweetness allows for a small amount to provide significant sweetening power.

Purified Stevia Leaf Extract is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a sweetener. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated steviol glycosides. These evaluations have generally concluded that they are safe for consumption within specified limits. Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal effects at very high intakes, though this is uncommon at typical consumption levels.