Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf Extract

Stevia leaf 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 purified. These extracts are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar.

Manufacturers use stevia leaf extract to sweeten foods and beverages with fewer calories. It is commonly found in diet soft drinks, flavored waters, yogurts, and tabletop sweeteners. Because it is so intensely sweet, it is often blended with other sweeteners or bulking agents.

Stevia leaf extracts (specifically high-purity steviol glycosides) are 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 and established acceptable daily intakes. Research indicates that stevia does not significantly impact blood glucose levels, making it a popular choice for individuals managing their sugar intake. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.