Natural Stevia Extract

Natural Stevia Extract is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. The sweet compounds, called steviol glycosides, are extracted from the leaves and then purified.

Manufacturers use Natural Stevia Extract as a zero-calorie sweetener in a wide variety of foods and beverages, including diet drinks, yogurts, and baked goods. It is much sweeter than sugar, so only small amounts are needed to achieve the desired sweetness.

In the U.S., high-purity steviol glycosides are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a sweetener. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated steviol glycosides. Research generally indicates that steviol glycosides are safe at typical consumption levels. Some studies have explored potential effects on blood sugar and gut health, but results are not always consistent.