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Stevia is extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant. The stevia plant is originated from South America. It is in the Chrysanthemum family.
There are more than hundred species of stevia plant, but only Stevia Rebaudiana contains the compounds that make its leaves taste sweet.The main ingredients in stevia are Stevioside and Rebaudioside. These compounds are proven to has 200 times sweeter than sugar in the same concentration.
Stevia has no calories. Since it is natural, it could be a healthy alternative to replace table sugar and chemical sweeteners such as aspartame and saccharine. It can be beneficial for diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and dental cavities.The only drawback is a bitter aftertaste which is mainly contributed by rebaudioside.
Stevia was approved by the Food and Drug Administration 6 years ago and has been used in many products from flavoured water to energy bars, candy to cookies and yogurt.
In 2013, stevia had been added into Sprite and reduced 30% of sugar content compared to its previous recipe. In 2014, stevia cola has been marketed and it has cut down one third of sugar content in it.
In the same year near Oct, Pepsi has unveiled a new product "Pepsi True" which is a stevia added Pepsi and it has 30% reduction of sugar.
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