The Ingredients of Stevia In The Raw
Many consumers seeking sugar alternatives are concerned about the ingredients in blended sweeteners. The question of "Does stevia in the raw contain erythritol or xylitol?" is common, and the answer is no. Stevia In The Raw is a zero-calorie, plant-based sweetener that sources its intense sweetness from highly purified stevia leaf extract, specifically Rebaudioside A (Reb-A). Since Reb-A is 200-400 times sweeter than sugar, it must be blended with a bulking agent to make it measure and pour like sugar.
Instead of sugar alcohols, the In The Raw company uses two primary bulking agents depending on the product form:
- Dextrose: For the individual packet version of Stevia In The Raw, the bulking agent is dextrose. Dextrose is a form of glucose derived from corn starch.
- Maltodextrin: The larger baking bag version of Stevia In The Raw uses maltodextrin, another starch-derived ingredient, as its bulking agent.
This deliberate choice of bulking agents sets Stevia In The Raw apart from other popular stevia-based products, which often rely on sugar alcohols like erythritol.
Understanding Erythritol and Xylitol
To fully understand the difference, it's helpful to know what erythritol and xylitol are. They are both sugar alcohols (polyols) used as low-calorie sweeteners and bulking agents.
- Erythritol: Found naturally in small amounts in some fruits, erythritol is commercially produced by fermenting glucose, typically from corn starch. It has a clean taste, is about 70% as sweet as sugar, and contains virtually no calories. It's largely absorbed into the bloodstream but then excreted in urine without being metabolized, so it doesn't affect blood sugar levels for most people.
- Xylitol: This sugar alcohol is also naturally present in many fruits and vegetables, but for commercial production, it's often extracted from corn cobs or birch wood. Xylitol is as sweet as sugar and has 2.4 calories per gram. It has gained popularity for its dental benefits, as mouth bacteria cannot feed on it. However, excessive consumption is known to cause digestive issues in some individuals. A critical point is that xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and other animals.
Stevia In The Raw vs. Blended Sweeteners with Erythritol
This is a key differentiator for shoppers. While Stevia In The Raw uses dextrose and maltodextrin, many competitors, such as the well-known brand Truvia, use erythritol as their primary bulking agent. This choice directly impacts a product's taste, texture, and potential side effects.
How Bulking Agents Affect Sweeteners
Bulking agents serve two main purposes: to give the high-intensity sweetener volume so it can be measured easily, and to offset the sometimes bitter aftertaste associated with pure stevia extract.
- Taste Profile: Erythritol is known for a cooling sensation in the mouth, and while it has a clean taste, it is not as sweet as sugar. Stevia In The Raw's use of dextrose and maltodextrin can create a taste profile that some users find closer to sugar. The final taste is a matter of personal preference.
- Texture and Application: Bulking agents also influence a sweetener's use in cooking and baking. Products blended with erythritol and/or xylitol behave differently than sugar and can affect the final texture of baked goods. The manufacturers of Stevia In The Raw recommend replacing only half the sugar in baked recipes to maintain moisture and texture.
- Digestive Tolerance: One of the most significant differences lies in digestive tolerance. Sugar alcohols like erythritol and xylitol can cause digestive distress, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea, especially when consumed in large quantities. Dextrose and maltodextrin, while being easily digestible carbohydrates, can still cause issues for some individuals. For example, some people with gluten sensitivity may need to be aware of the source of these starches.
Comparison Table: Stevia In The Raw vs. Erythritol/Xylitol Blends
| Feature | Stevia In The Raw | Erythritol/Xylitol Blends (e.g., Truvia) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Sweetener | Purified Stevia Extract (Reb-A) | Purified Stevia Extract (Reb-A) |
| Bulking Agent | Dextrose (packets), Maltodextrin (baking) | Erythritol (sugar alcohol) |
| Contains Sugar Alcohols? | No | Yes |
| Source | Plant-based (stevia plant) and corn | Plant-based (stevia plant) and fermented sugar |
| Calories | Zero-calorie per serving* | Zero-calorie or very low-calorie |
| Digestive Effects | Varies, depends on sensitivity to bulking agents | Potential for digestive issues like gas and bloating |
| Sweetness Comparison | Measures 1:1 with sugar in baking bag | Erythritol is ~70% as sweet as sugar |
| Best For | Beverages, sauces, and baking (partial replacement) | Beverages, cooking, and specific keto applications |
*Stevia In The Raw packets are labeled as zero-calorie because they contain less than 4 calories per serving, which is the FDA cutoff for being able to label a food as such. This is due to the caloric content of dextrose and maltodextrin.
Conclusion
For consumers asking if Stevia In The Raw contains erythritol or xylitol, the definitive answer is no, according to the manufacturer. The product uses dextrose or maltodextrin as plant-based bulking agents, unlike other blended sweeteners on the market that rely on sugar alcohols like erythritol. The choice between Stevia In The Raw and other stevia blends comes down to ingredient preference, taste, and digestive tolerance. If you have concerns about sugar alcohols or prefer to avoid them, Stevia In The Raw offers a viable alternative for sweetening your food and beverages. It is always wise to read product labels carefully and to consider how different bulking agents may affect your body and recipes. For further product information, you can visit the official In The Raw website.
