Stevia Leaf Extract And Monk Fruit Extract

Stevia leaf extract and monk fruit extract are natural high-intensity sweeteners derived from plants. Stevia comes from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. Monk fruit, also known as luo han guo, is a small, round fruit grown in Southeast Asia. Both extracts are produced through processes that isolate the sweet compounds from the plant material.

These extracts are used as sugar substitutes in a wide variety of foods and beverages, including baked goods, dairy products, snacks, and beverages. They provide sweetness with little to no calories, making them popular in 'sugar-free' or 'reduced-sugar' products. Their intense sweetness means only small amounts are needed.

Both stevia leaf extracts (steviol glycosides) and monk fruit extracts are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as sweeteners. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these substances. Research on the health effects of these sweeteners at typical consumption levels has not shown significant adverse outcomes. Some studies have explored potential effects on gut microbiota or blood sugar, but evidence is mixed and requires further investigation.