Is NOW Better Stevia Erythritol-Free?
Yes, NOW Better Stevia is explicitly formulated without erythritol. The manufacturer, NOW Foods, takes special measures to ensure their stevia products contain a pure, organic stevia extract rather than bulking agents like erythritol. This is a key differentiating factor, as many other zero-calorie sweetener blends on the market combine stevia with erythritol to improve taste and volume. For consumers on a strict keto diet, seeking to avoid sugar alcohols, or concerned about erythritol's potential side effects, NOW Better Stevia offers a reliable, unblended alternative.
The Ingredients in NOW Better Stevia
Unlike many conventional sweetener products, NOW Better Stevia's ingredient list is straightforward and varies slightly depending on the product type. Here is a breakdown of the typical ingredients found in the different formulations:
Liquid Better Stevia (Glycerite)
- Vegetable Glycerin
- Organic Stevia Extract (Stevia rebaudiana) (Leaf)
- De-ionized Water
Liquid Better Stevia (Original)
- De-ionized Water
- Certified Organic Stevia Leaf Extract
- 11% Organic Cane Alcohol
Better Stevia Powder
- Organic Stevia Glycosides (Stevia rebaudiana) (Leaf) Extract Powder
Better Stevia Packets
- Rice Maltodextrin
- Certified Organic Stevia Leaf Extract
- Silica
This variety shows that while some forms, like the packets, use a carrier, it is rice maltodextrin instead of the sugar alcohol erythritol. This provides transparency for consumers who prefer to know exactly what they are putting into their bodies.
Comparison: NOW Better Stevia vs. Stevia-Erythritol Blends
To better understand why the absence of erythritol is important, here is a comparison between NOW Better Stevia and typical stevia products that include erythritol:
| Feature | NOW Better Stevia | Stevia + Erythritol Blend |
|---|---|---|
| Erythritol Content | None | Contains Erythritol as a primary ingredient |
| Bulking Agent | Varies by product (e.g., vegetable glycerin, rice maltodextrin) | Erythritol |
| Taste Profile | Developed to minimize aftertaste through specific processing | Combination aims to reduce the metallic aftertaste of pure stevia and mask the cooling effect of erythritol |
| Physical Form | Concentrated powder, liquid, or sachets | Often granulated to mimic sugar's texture |
| Primary Goal | Provide a pure, organic stevia experience | Improve overall taste and bulk to make it easier to measure |
| Health Concerns | Generally considered very safe, minimal side effects reported | Some studies have linked high erythritol intake to potential cardiovascular risks, prompting caution for some individuals |
The Debate Around Erythritol
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in some fruits and mushrooms, but it is also commercially produced for use as a sweetener. While it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, a study published in February 2023 linked high levels of erythritol to an increased risk of blood clotting, heart attack, and stroke. This finding, while requiring further research for causation, has raised awareness and concern among health-conscious consumers. Erythritol is primarily added to stevia blends because it is only 70% as sweet as sugar and provides the bulk needed to make a product that measures like sugar. For example, many low-carb or keto-friendly products use erythritol for its crystalline structure and sugar-like mouthfeel. NOW Foods, by avoiding this ingredient, offers an option for those who want to sidestep these potential concerns entirely.
Why Purity Matters to NOW Foods
NOW Foods has been a long-time advocate for natural sweeteners and emphasizes the purity of its Better Stevia line. The company uses a special enzymatic treatment to create a clean, superior-tasting extract that is less bitter than some other stevia products. They use a whole-leaf extract approach, retaining the full natural sweetness, which they believe is superior to using isolated fractions like Rebaudiana A (Reb A) alone, which is known for its licorice-like aftertaste. This processing method allows them to produce a flavorful, non-bitter stevia without the need for fillers or maskers like erythritol. For those who follow clean-eating principles or are specifically managing health conditions like diabetes, knowing that the sweetener is pure and unblended is a significant advantage.
How to Find the Right Sweetener for You
Choosing the right sweetener depends on your dietary goals and health concerns. Here are some steps to follow:
- Read the Ingredient Label: Never assume a product is pure based on brand reputation alone. Always check the ingredients list for added sweeteners or fillers, including erythritol.
- Consider Your Diet: If you are following a keto diet but want to avoid sugar alcohols, NOW Better Stevia is a suitable choice. If you prefer a 1:1 sugar replacement for baking, you may need a blend that includes a bulking agent, though it's important to be aware of the ingredients.
- Check for Certifications: NOW Better Stevia carries certifications like USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, which provide additional assurance about the product's quality and sourcing.
- Know Your Sensitivities: If you experience digestive issues with sugar alcohols, opting for pure stevia is a safer bet. Some individuals may also have a sensitivity to other fillers like maltodextrin, so careful label reading is essential.
Conclusion
For those asking "Does NOW Better Stevia contain erythritol?", the answer is a definitive no. NOW Foods has strategically chosen to formulate its Better Stevia line as a pure, organic stevia extract, relying on specific processing techniques to deliver a clean, non-bitter taste without the need for bulking agents like erythritol. This makes it a compelling option for diabetics, those on a keto diet, or anyone seeking to avoid sugar alcohols and other added fillers. While erythritol is a common component in many other stevia blends, NOW Better Stevia remains a clean, unblended alternative, emphasizing purity and natural sweetness. To be certain of any sweetener's contents, always verify the ingredient list on the product packaging before purchase.
