The Many Names of Stevia on Ingredient Labels
When you see a product labeled "sweetened with stevia," the ingredient list will likely show a more technical name for the sweet compounds extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Only highly purified stevia leaf extract is approved for use as a sweetener in foods and beverages by major regulatory agencies like the FDA. The following are the most common names to look for on an ingredient label.
Common Steviol Glycoside Names
The sweet-tasting compounds within the stevia plant are called steviol glycosides. Different types of steviol glycosides have unique sweetness profiles and may be listed individually depending on the manufacturer. For example, some have a cleaner, more sugar-like taste, while others can have a slight bitterness or aftertaste, which manufacturers try to minimize.
Commonly listed steviol glycosides include:
- Rebaudioside A (Reb A): This is one of the most common and sweetest extracts used in commercial stevia sweeteners, prized for its clean taste. You may see it simply listed as "Reb A" or "rebaudioside A."
- Rebaudioside M (Reb M): A newer, more sugar-like tasting extract that is gaining popularity.
- Stevioside: Another abundant steviol glycoside found in the stevia plant.
- Steviol Glycosides: A general term that may be used if a product contains a mixture of these compounds.
Stevia Blends and Fillers
Many consumer stevia products, especially granulated or powdered versions, are not pure stevia extract. The intense sweetness of steviol glycosides means that only a tiny amount is needed, so fillers are often added to provide bulk and improve the taste.
- Common fillers and bulking agents include:
- Erythritol: A sugar alcohol often blended with Reb A, which provides a sugar-like texture and taste. Brands like Truvia use this combination.
- Dextrose or Maltodextrin: These carbohydrates are sometimes added to provide volume, but they can add a small number of calories and raise blood sugar. Stevia In The Raw packets, for example, contain dextrose.
- Natural Flavors: The term "natural flavors" may appear on the label to mask the licorice-like or bitter aftertaste that some stevia extracts can have. These flavors are regulated by the FDA but can still be highly processed.
Understanding Regulatory and Naming Standards
The way stevia is listed on an ingredient label can also depend on regulatory standards. In some countries, like Australia and New Zealand, steviol glycosides are classified as a food additive with a specific code, such as 'sweetener (960)'. In the United States, high-purity steviol glycosides have been designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA, allowing them to be marketed and added to foods. However, crude stevia extracts and whole stevia leaves are not FDA-approved for use as food additives.
How to Identify Stevia on Food Labels
To effectively decode a food label, always look beyond a brand name like "Truvia" or "Pure Via" and find the detailed ingredient list. The product may be marketed as a stevia product, but the actual ingredient on the list will be a purified extract or a blend of ingredients.
Here is a simple guide to what you might find on an ingredient list versus what is being marketed:
| Product Marketing | Ingredient List Example | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| "Pure Stevia Extract" | Steviol Glycosides, Stevia Leaf Extract, or Rebaudioside A | The product contains the purified sweet compounds from the stevia plant. |
| "Stevia Sweetener" | Erythritol, Stevia Leaf Extract | The stevia extract is combined with a bulking agent like erythritol. |
| "Natural Sweetener Blend" | Dextrose, Stevia Leaf Extract, Natural Flavors | A mix of a bulking agent, stevia extract, and other flavorings to enhance the taste. |
| Diet Soda "with Stevia" | Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Steviol Glycosides | The sweetener used is the purified steviol glycosides from the plant. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, when asking, "What is stevia listed as in ingredients?" the answer is rarely just "stevia." Food and beverage manufacturers use more specific, scientifically defined terms to identify the highly purified sweet compounds. By familiarizing yourself with names like steviol glycosides, rebaudioside A, and understanding common fillers such as erythritol or dextrose, you can accurately interpret product labels. The FDA and other global regulatory bodies have strict standards for these ingredients, so the label you read reflects a refined extract, not the whole plant. A review of the pharmacology and toxicology of these compounds can be found in this study: A Review on the Pharmacology and Toxicology of Steviol Glycosides: Implications for Human Health.
Further Considerations
While highly purified stevia extracts are generally considered safe, the presence of other ingredients like dextrose can affect individuals with diabetes. Those with dietary sensitivities should also be mindful of fillers like erythritol and added "natural flavors." Always check the full ingredient list to understand what you're consuming. The specific formulation will determine the final taste profile and how it affects your body.
Deciphering the Stevia Sweetener Puzzle
When navigating the world of zero-calorie sweeteners, particularly those claiming to be "stevia," it's essential to look past the marketing and focus on the ingredient list. By understanding the common naming conventions for steviol glycosides and the use of bulking agents, you can make informed choices about the products you consume. Whether it's a tabletop sweetener or a diet beverage, the details on the label are key to understanding what's really in the product.
