Stevioside

Stevioside is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the plant species Stevia rebaudiana. It is a type of glycoside that is 250-300 times sweeter than sucrose, making it a popular sugar substitute. Stevioside has been used for many years in various cultures around the world, particularly in South America and Asia, for its sweetening properties and potential health benefits.

History

The Stevia rebaudiana plant, from which stevioside is derived, is native to Paraguay and Brazil. The indigenous Guarani people have used the leaves of the plant for hundreds of years to sweeten beverages and foods. The sweet compounds in the plant, including stevioside, were first isolated by French chemists in the 1930s.

Extraction and Production

Stevioside is extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant through a process of water extraction, filtration, and drying. The dried extract is then purified to remove other compounds, leaving pure stevioside. This process is similar to the extraction of other natural sweeteners, such as monk fruit extract.

Use and Applications

Stevioside is used as a sweetener in a wide range of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, juices, yogurt, baked goods, and candy. It is also used in dietary supplements and some medicines due to its potential health benefits. Stevioside is heat stable, pH stable, and non-fermentable, making it suitable for use in a variety of cooking and baking applications.

Health Effects

Stevioside has been studied for its potential health benefits, particularly in relation to diabetes and obesity. Some studies suggest that it may help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce calorie intake. However, more research is needed to fully understand the health effects of stevioside.

Regulatory Status

The regulatory status of stevioside varies by country. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated stevioside as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in food and beverages. In the European Union, stevioside is approved as a food additive.

See Also

• Stevia
• Sugar substitute
• Glycoside
• Food and Drug Administration