Product Description
Is extracted from compositae plants stevia leaves out a glycoside.
Stevia is native to Paraguay and Brazil, it has the characteristics of high sweetness, low thermal, the 200-300 times that of sucrose sweetness, calorific value is only 1/300 of the sucrose.
AI Product Description
*The following content is generated by AI and is for reference only.
Stevioside, chemically identified as (13E)-13-hydroxykaur-16-en-19-oic acid 13-O-beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester, is a high-intensity natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the South American shrub *Stevia rebaudiana*. With the molecular formula C38H60O18 and CAS Registry Number 57817-89-7, this glycoside stands out as one of the most potent naturally occurring non-nutritive sweeteners known to science. It possesses approximately 250 to 300 times the sweetness intensity of sucrose, yet it contributes zero calories to the diet, making it an ideal alternative for individuals managing diabetes, obesity, or those seeking to reduce overall sugar consumption without sacrificing flavor.
The production of stevioside involves extracting dried leaves with hot water, followed by purification processes such as crystallization or chromatography to isolate the specific compound. Unlike synthetic sweeteners like aspartame or saccharin, stevioside is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by major regulatory bodies, including the FDA and EFSA, provided it meets purity standards. Its stability under heat and varying pH levels allows it to be widely used in baking, cooking, beverages, and processed foods where traditional sugar would degrade or add unwanted caloric load. However, some consumers report a slight licorice-like aftertaste at very high concentrations, which manufacturers often mitigate through blending with other sweeteners or using highly refined extracts like rebaudioside A.
Beyond its culinary applications, stevioside has garnered attention in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries for potential metabolic benefits, including modest blood pressure regulation and improved insulin sensitivity, although clinical consensus on these therapeutic effects continues to evolve. As global demand for clean-label ingredients rises, stevioside remains a cornerstone in the formulation of sugar-free gums, diet sodas, and health supplements. Its natural origin and distinct chemical profile ensure its continued relevance in the evolving landscape of functional food ingredients, offering a sustainable solution for reducing global sugar intake while maintaining palatability across diverse product categories.