Monkfruit Extract

Monk fruit extract is a natural sweetener derived from the monk fruit, a small, round fruit native to Southeast Asia. The extract is produced by crushing the fruit and extracting the juice, which is then dried into a powder. It is known for its intense sweetness, which comes from compounds called mogrosides.

Monk fruit extract is used as a low-calorie sweetener in a variety of food and beverage products. Manufacturers add it to reduce sugar content while maintaining sweetness. It is commonly found in sugar-free or reduced-sugar items like baked goods, beverages, chewing gum, and confectionery.

In the U.S., monk fruit extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a sweetener. It is not metabolized by the body in the same way as sugar, so it does not significantly impact blood glucose levels. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated monk fruit extract, with JECFA establishing an acceptable daily intake.