Rebiana

Rebiana is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, which is a species of the stevia plant native to Brazil and Paraguay. It is also known by other names such as stevia extract, Reb A, or rebaudioside A. Rebiana is specifically an extract that contains high concentrations of rebaudioside A, a compound that is responsible for the sweet taste of the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. This sweetener has gained popularity worldwide due to its natural origin and the fact that it does not add calories, making it a preferred choice for people looking to reduce sugar intake or manage diabetes.

Production

The production of Rebiana involves several steps, starting with the harvesting of Stevia rebaudiana leaves. Once harvested, the leaves undergo a process of drying and milling. The extraction of rebaudioside A is then carried out through a water-based method, which separates the sweet compounds from the plant material. The extract is further purified to increase the concentration of rebaudioside A, resulting in the final product known as Rebiana.

Uses

Rebiana is widely used as a sweetener in various food and beverage products, including soft drinks, juices, teas, and desserts. It is also available as a tabletop sweetener, allowing consumers to sweeten their foods and beverages to their preference without the added calories of sugar. Due to its high sweetness level, which is estimated to be about 200 to 300 times sweeter than table sugar, only a small amount of Rebiana is required to achieve the desired sweetness.

Health and Safety

The safety of Rebiana has been evaluated by several health and regulatory organizations, including the World Health Organization's Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These organizations have concluded that Rebiana is safe for consumption within certain limits. It is considered a non-caloric sweetener, making it a useful option for individuals looking to reduce calorie intake or manage blood sugar levels.

Regulatory Status

The regulatory status of Rebiana varies by country, but it has been approved for use in many countries around the world, including the United States, the European Union, and Japan. In the United States, Rebiana is recognized as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food and beverages.

Conclusion

Rebiana represents a significant advancement in the field of natural sweeteners, offering a calorie-free alternative to sugar that is derived from a plant source. Its widespread acceptance and use in a variety of products underscore its safety and effectiveness as a sweetener. As consumers continue to seek healthier and more natural alternatives to sugar, the popularity of Rebiana is likely to continue growing.