Stevia extract is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, a member of the Asteraceae family. Native to Paraguay and Brazil, stevia has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples as a sweetener and medicinal herb. The key components responsible for its sweetness are steviol glycosides, primarily stevioside and rebaudioside A (Reb-A), which are 200 to 400 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar) but contain zero calories.

1. Natural Origin:

Stevia extract is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. The extraction process involves drying the leaves, steeping them in water, and purifying the resulting liquid to isolate the sweet components.

2. High Sweetness and Zero Calories:

Steviol glycosides, the sweet compounds in stevia, are significantly sweeter than sugar, allowing for small amounts to be used to achieve desired sweetness levels without adding calories.

3. Health Benefits:

Diabetes Management: Stevia does not raise blood glucose levels, making it a safe alternative for people with diabetes.

Weight Management: As a zero-calorie sweetener, stevia can be used to reduce overall calorie intake, which is beneficial for weight management.

Dental Health: Unlike sugar, stevia does not contribute to tooth decay and is considered tooth-friendly.

4. Regulatory Approval:

Stevia extract has been approved for use as a sweetener in many countries, including the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom. The U.S. FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recognize steviol glycosides as safe for consumption within established limits.

5. Applications:

Stevia extract is used in various food and beverage products, including soft drinks, teas, desserts, sauces, and tabletop sweeteners. It is also used in some pharmaceutical products due to its non-glycemic properties.

Usage Considerations:

While stevia extract is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste. Formulating products with stevia often involves blending it with other sweeteners or flavoring agents to mask this aftertaste.