Stevia

Stevia is a high-intensity sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. The sweet compounds, called steviol glycosides, are extracted from the leaves and purified.

Steviol glycosides are used as a sugar substitute due to their intense sweetness and very low calorie content. They are often found in sugar-free or reduced-sugar products such as beverages, confectionery, dairy products, and tabletop sweeteners.

Steviol glycosides are authorised food additives in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated steviol glycosides and established an acceptable daily intake (ADI). Evidence suggests they do not raise blood glucose levels, making them suitable for individuals managing blood sugar. Some studies have explored potential effects on gut microbiota, but further research is ongoing.