INS 960

Stevia

Why has stevia become a popular zero-calorie sweetener?

About

Stevia is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the stevia rebaudiana plant.

Facts

  • 100-400 times sweeter than sugar
  • Zero calories

How Stevia Works

Chemical Structure

Stevia's natural sweetness comes from special plant compounds called steviol glycosides. Unlike regular sugar, your body handles stevia differently as most of it passes through your digestive system without being fully absorbed.

Stevia

Regulatory Status

Approved by major health authorities worldwide

  • FSSAI
  • FDA (Reb-A only)
  • European Food Safety Authority
  • Japan Ministry of Health

Health & Safety

Blood Sugar Impact

  • Do not raise blood glucose levels
  • Can significantly lower blood sugar levels (shown in studies using 200-400mg/kg body weight of stevia leaves)
  • Limited research on long-term effects

Usage Tips

  • Great for sweetening iced tea or baking low-calorie treats!
  • Choose pure extracts over blended products

On Food Labels

Look for these approved names

  • Stevia
  • Steviol glycosides
  • Rebaudioside A (Reb-A)
  • Stevia extract

Sweet Trivia

Did you know? Stevia has been used as a sweetener in South America for centuries!