Rebaudiana-a

Rebaudiana-a is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It is a purified extract, meaning specific sweet compounds called steviol glycosides are isolated from the plant material. These compounds are then processed to create a concentrated sweetener.

Manufacturers use rebaudiana-a as a zero-calorie sweetener in a wide variety of food and beverage products. It is often found in diet sodas, flavored waters, sports drinks, and tabletop sweeteners. Its intense sweetness allows for a small amount to replace the sugar in a product.

Rebaudiana-a 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. While generally considered safe at typical consumption levels, some studies have explored potential effects on gut bacteria and blood sugar, though evidence is mixed and often based on high doses not reflective of normal intake. The FDA monitors scientific literature for any new safety concerns.