Definition

Stevia extract is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni herb plant that is native to Paraguay and Brazil. Makers of stevia extracts claim it is 200 to 300 times sweeter than cane sugar.

Extract

Stevia extract is made by soaking the leaves in grain alcohol or water. They can also be dried and ground to create a green powder. White extract powder is difficult to make at home, but is the standard form of stevia extract powder found on store shelves.

Production

White powdered stevia is manufactured by combining the liquid extract with bulking agents such as maltodextrin and dextrose, though some commercial producers add other artificial sweeteners to the extract powder to conceal the slight licorice taste.

Brands

In 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration allowed stevia brands Truvia and PureVia to begin marketing stevia extract sweeteners. Stevia had already been available as a nutritional supplement only. Now stevia extract is sold in the United States under names such as Stevia in the Raw, SweetLeaf and Steviva.

Use

Stevia extract powders are used as sugar replacements in baked goods, for sweetening coffee or tea and for sweetening sauces.

Source:

Stevia.com: Questions & Answers

Stevia.net: History of Use

More Information:

Stevia in the Raw: FAQs