What Brand of Monk Fruit Does Not Contain Erythritol?

According to the FDA, monk fruit extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), yet many popular sweeteners blend it with erythritol to bulk it up. However, several reputable brands offer 100% pure monk fruit extract for consumers who wish to avoid this particular sugar alcohol.

Quick Summary

Several brands provide pure monk fruit extract without adding erythritol or other fillers. Consumers can find these erythritol-free options by carefully checking ingredient labels for products marked as 100% pure monk fruit or monk fruit extract. Liquid concentrates and certain powder forms are often free of additives.

Key Points

• Ingredient Check: Always read the ingredient list for products labeled "100% pure monk fruit extract" to ensure no hidden fillers like erythritol or maltodextrin are present.

• Liquid is Safest: Liquid monk fruit concentrates, such as those from NOW Foods, are a reliable option for avoiding fillers, as they are typically just pure extract mixed with water.

• Erythritol-Free Brands: Look for specific product lines from brands like Morning Pep, Durelife, and the pure extract version from Lakanto that explicitly state they are erythritol-free.

• Measurement Challenge: Be aware that pure monk fruit is extremely sweet, and a very small amount is needed. Baking with pure extract requires precise measurement and can affect the final texture.

• Consider Alternatives: If avoiding erythritol is the goal, some brands use other fillers like allulose or maltodextrin. Monk Fruit In The Raw®'s baking bag uses maltodextrin, which is erythritol-free but not filler-free.

• Potential Concerns: Many choose to avoid erythritol due to potential gastrointestinal issues or recent studies linking it to cardiovascular concerns.

Why Find an Erythritol-Free Monk Fruit Sweetener?

For many health-conscious individuals, monk fruit sweetener is an excellent zero-calorie, zero-glycemic alternative to sugar. However, the search for a pure product can be surprisingly difficult. This is because raw, pure monk fruit extract is intensely sweet and requires only a tiny amount to sweeten food or drink. To make it easier for consumers to measure and use, many manufacturers bulk up their monk fruit with fillers, and erythritol is one of the most common.

Potential Issues with Erythritol

While widely considered safe for most people, some individuals prefer to avoid erythritol for several reasons:

• Digestive Discomfort: Erythritol is a sugar alcohol, and for some people, consuming it in large quantities can lead to bloating, gas, and digestive distress.
• Cardiovascular Concerns: A 2023 study published in Nature Medicine linked erythritol consumption with an increased risk of blood clots and major cardiovascular events. This research, while needing further investigation, has prompted many to reconsider their use of erythritol.
• Personal Preference: For those seeking the most natural and least processed sweetener possible, a product with a single ingredient—monk fruit extract—is the clear choice. This avoids the use of any fillers, whether natural or synthetic.

How to Identify Pure Monk Fruit Products

To find a brand that doesn't contain erythritol, you must look for products explicitly labeled as "100% pure monk fruit extract" or "erythritol-free." Liquid drop concentrates are a particularly reliable option, as they are pure extract suspended in water. Powdered products should be scrutinized carefully, as many are blended with fillers. Always check the ingredient list for hidden additives.

Brands That Offer Erythritol-Free Monk Fruit

Several brands offer monk fruit products that are explicitly labeled as 100% pure or erythritol-free. Always check the ingredient list as product formulations can change. Some brands known for offering pure or erythritol-free options include:

• Morning Pep
• Durelife
• Lakanto (look for their specifically labeled "Pure Monk Fruit Extract Powder")
• NOW Foods (often in liquid form)
• Monk Fruit In The Raw® (their 4.8oz baking bag uses maltodextrin instead of erythritol)
• The Mix Superfoods
• BSL BSweet BNatural

Comparison of Pure Monk Fruit Sweeteners

Feature	Durelife Organic 100% Pure Monk Fruit	NOW Foods Organic Monk Fruit Liquid	Lakanto Pure Monk Fruit Extract Powder	Monk Fruit In The Raw® (Baking Bag)
Form	Powder	Liquid Drops	Powder	Powder (bulked)
Erythritol-Free	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Other Fillers	None advertised	None (just water)	None	Maltodextrin
Certifications	USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified	USDA Organic	Non-GMO Project Verified	N/A
Best For	Cooking and baking where a pure powder is desired	Sweetening drinks, smoothies, and other liquids	High-purity sweetening, small amounts needed	Baking that requires a cup-for-cup sugar replacement without erythritol

Conclusion

While the majority of mainstream monk fruit sweeteners are blended with erythritol for bulk and measurement, a wide variety of erythritol-free options are readily available for those who prefer them. Brands like Morning Pep, Durelife, Lakanto (their pure version), and NOW Foods are transparent about their ingredient lists, offering 100% pure monk fruit extract in both powder and liquid forms. By reading labels carefully and seeking out products that explicitly state they are pure or free of erythritol, you can easily find a sweetener that meets your dietary needs and preferences. When in doubt, a liquid monk fruit concentrate is often the safest bet for an additive-free product. For more information on sweeteners, you can visit the International Food Information Council (IFIC) website.

Outbound Link: IFIC - International Food Information Council

Frequently Asked Questions

Which specific brand of monk fruit sweetener is guaranteed to be erythritol-free?

Brands like Morning Pep 100% Pure Monk Fruit Extract, Durelife Organic 100% Pure Monk Fruit, and the pure extract version from Lakanto are confirmed to be erythritol-free based on their product descriptions.

Why would I want to avoid erythritol in my monk fruit sweetener?

Some people choose to avoid erythritol due to potential gastrointestinal side effects like bloating and gas, while others are concerned by recent research suggesting a possible link to cardiovascular issues.

Is all erythritol-free monk fruit sweetener also filler-free?

No. While some erythritol-free products, like liquid concentrates and certain pure powders, contain no fillers, others may use alternatives like maltodextrin to provide bulk. Always check the ingredients list to be sure.

Can a diabetic use erythritol-free monk fruit sweetener?

Yes, 100% pure monk fruit extract is an excellent choice for diabetics. It is calorie-free, has a zero glycemic index, and will not cause blood sugar spikes.

How can I tell if a monk fruit product contains fillers?

The most reliable way is to read the ingredient list on the packaging. If the product is not 100% pure monk fruit extract, it will list additional ingredients such as erythritol, maltodextrin, allulose, or other sugar alcohols.

Is pure monk fruit liquid sweeter than pure monk fruit powder?

No, the potency is similar, but the form factor differs. Liquid concentrates and powdered extracts are both intensely sweet. The liquid is often used for beverages, while the powder can be used for both drinks and baking.

Is there an aftertaste with erythritol-free monk fruit?

Many pure monk fruit products are praised for their clean, sugar-like taste with no aftertaste. However, taste perception is subjective and can vary by brand and concentration. Some may find a slight bitter note, especially when using larger amounts.

Is it easy to bake with pure monk fruit extract?

Baking with pure monk fruit can be challenging because it lacks the bulk and texture of sugar. You will need to use a very small amount and may need to adjust your recipe to account for the missing volume and moisture that sugar provides.