Stevia

Products

Products containing stevia extracts have been available in many countries since 2008. They are now commercially available in the form of drops, as powders, tabs, and as granules, among others. Stevia is also found in processed foods and in beverages. In South America, stevia has been used for centuries, for example to sweeten mate. The dried leaves can be ordered from retailers such as Hänseler or Dixa. Stevia is also available as a houseplant or garden plant. Caution: Dried stevia leaves may be used in many countries exclusively for the production of herbal teas, with a maximum content of two percent. Neither the herb nor the leaves may be sold as a sweetener. Only the use of the steviol glycosides extracted from the leaves (aqueous JECFA extract) is permitted. The sale of the plant is allowed.

Stem plant

Bertoni, from the composite family (Asteraceae), is native to Paraguay in South America and is now cultivated in several countries.

Parts of the plant used

Mainly the leaves (Steviae rebaudianae folium, Steviae folium) are used. Powder, extracts and the steviol glycosides are prepared from them.

Ingredients

Steviol glycosides are responsible for the sweet taste. These include stevioside (aglycone: steviol), the rebaudiosides (e.g., rebaudioside A, rebaudioside C), and the dulcosides. The extracts contain mainly stevioside and rebaudioside A. They are present as white to slightly yellow powders and are very soluble in water.

Effects

Stevia has a sweet taste. It is low in calories, does not increase blood sugar levels and does not cause tooth decay. The dried leaves are 30 to 45 times, steviol glycosides are 300 times sweeter than table sugar. The extracts are heat resistant and can also be used for cooking, baking and hot drinks. Stevia does not caramelize or turn brown when heated.

Areas of application

As a low-calorie sweetener, including for food, sweets and beverages.

Dosage

According to the manufacturer’s instructions. Compared to table sugar, a much smaller amount is needed because stevia is much sweeter.

Adverse effects

Stevia is generally considered safe (GRAS). However, adverse effects cannot be completely ruled out.