Erythritol And Stevia Leaf Extract
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What it is
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in some fruits and fermented foods. It is produced commercially through the fermentation of glucose by yeast. Stevia leaf extract is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant.
Why it's used
These ingredients are used as low-calorie sweeteners in a variety of food and beverage products. They are often combined to provide a more sugar-like taste profile and reduce aftertastes. They are commonly found in powdered drink mixes, teas, baked goods, and tabletop sweeteners.
Health notes
Both erythritol and stevia leaf extract are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as sweeteners. They are not metabolized by the body in the same way as sugar, leading to fewer calories and no impact on blood sugar levels. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated these sweeteners. Some recent studies have explored potential links between high blood levels of erythritol and cardiovascular events, but more research is needed to understand these findings.
Allergen info
Neither erythritol nor stevia leaf extract are derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.