Rebaudioside

Sweet molecules in Stevia

Rebaudioside is a steviol glycoside that is found in the leaves of the stevia plant. It is 240 times sweeter than sugar.

Properties

• Rebaudioside A is the sweetest and most stable steviol glycoside.
• It is less bitter than stevioside.
• Stevia leaves contain 3.8% rebaudioside A.
• Rebaudioside A is soluble in organic solvents such as DMSO and dimethyl formamide.

Safety

• Stevia products made with Reb-A are considered safe, even for people who are pregnant or who have diabetes.
• These products rarely cause side effects.
• However, more research needs to be done to provide conclusive evidence on weight management, diabetes and other health issues.
• Stevia can have blood pressure– and blood glucose–lowering effects, as well as diuretic effects.
• Those taking certain medications or who have certain health conditions should talk with their healthcare provider before consuming significant quantities of Stevia.

Uses

• Rebaudioside A and stevioside are the two main steviol glycosides found in the S. Rebaudiana herb.
• They are the two predominant derivatives used in high- potency sweeteners.
• Steviol glycosides can currently be used as a food ingredient in only a handful of countries.