What Exactly is in the Cove Sweetener Blend?
Cove uses a proprietary "Cove Natural Sweetener Blend" to achieve its zero-sugar, sweet flavor profile. This blend consists of two primary, plant-based ingredients: erythritol and stevia. Understanding each component is key to appreciating why this combination is used.
Erythritol: The Sugar Alcohol Erythritol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in small amounts in some fruits, like grapes and melons, as well as fermented foods. However, the erythritol used commercially is typically produced through the fermentation of glucose derived from corn starch. Key characteristics include:
- Zero Glycemic Index: Erythritol has a glycemic index of zero, meaning it does not raise blood sugar or insulin levels. This makes it a popular choice for people with diabetes or those following a ketogenic diet.
- Near-Zero Calories: While not completely calorie-free, it contains only 0.2 calories per gram, significantly less than regular sugar's 4 calories per gram. The human body poorly metabolizes it, with about 90% being excreted unchanged in urine.
- Taste and Texture: It offers a clean sweetness profile that is about 70% as sweet as sugar. It also provides bulk and texture similar to sugar, which is valuable in drink formulation.
Stevia: The Zero-Calorie Plant Extract Stevia is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Its active compounds, called steviol glycosides, are extracted to create a powerful, zero-calorie sweetener.
- Extremely Sweet: Stevia is anywhere from 200 to 400 times sweeter than regular sugar, so only a very small amount is needed.
- Flavor Profile: While highly sweet, some people detect a mild, licorice-like or bitter aftertaste, especially in less-refined forms. Combining it with other sweeteners like erythritol helps to mask this aftertaste and provide a more balanced flavor.
Why Use a Blend of Erythritol and Stevia?
Combining these two sweeteners offers several advantages for a beverage like Cove Soda. The blend creates a more palatable, well-rounded sweetness that closely mimics the taste of sugar, overcoming the individual limitations of each component. Erythritol provides bulk and a clean flavor, while stevia delivers intense sweetness without extra calories. This synergy results in a zero-sugar drink that avoids the common pitfalls of a strong aftertaste often associated with using high concentrations of a single sugar alternative.
Comparison of Erythritol vs. Stevia
| Feature | Erythritol | Stevia |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Naturally in fruits, commercially from fermented corn starch. | Extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. |
| Sweetness Level | ~70% as sweet as sugar. | 200-400 times sweeter than sugar. |
| Calorie Content | 0.2 calories per gram (near zero). | Zero calories. |
| Glycemic Index | 0 (no impact on blood sugar). | 0 (no impact on blood sugar). |
| Primary Function in Blend | Provides bulk and a clean, sugar-like taste. | Delivers intense, zero-calorie sweetness. |
| Potential Aftertaste | Mild, cooling sensation in high amounts. | Can have a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste. |
| Long-Term Safety Concerns | Some recent studies suggest a potential link to cardiovascular risk, especially at high intake levels. | Long history of safe use, limited evidence of significant adverse effects. |
| Digestive Impact | Well-tolerated in moderate amounts; less likely to cause issues than other sugar alcohols. | Minimal digestive impact for most people at normal levels. |
Potential Health Considerations
While the Cove sweetener blend provides a zero-sugar option, it's worth being aware of the ongoing scientific discussion regarding alternative sweeteners.
Cardiovascular Risk
Recent studies have raised some concerns about high levels of erythritol potentially being linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. These studies, often conducted on people already at higher risk for heart problems, found that high levels of erythritol in the blood enhanced blood platelet sensitivity, which can lead to increased clot formation. While more research is needed to understand the long-term effects, experts suggest those with pre-existing heart conditions should be cautious with high consumption.
Digestive Effects
Erythritol is generally well-tolerated compared to other sugar alcohols. However, consuming very large amounts can still cause minor gastrointestinal discomfort, such as gas or bloating, in some sensitive individuals. The amount typically found in a single serving of Cove is unlikely to cause issues for most people.
Conclusion: A Naturally Sweet Choice with Nuances
Cove drinks use an organic, plant-based sweetener blend of erythritol and stevia to provide a delicious, zero-sugar, probiotic beverage. This blend is beneficial for those managing blood sugar levels, on a keto diet, or simply seeking a low-calorie alternative to traditional soda. The synergistic effect of the two sweeteners creates a balanced taste profile that avoids the strong aftertaste of stevia alone. However, consumers should be mindful of the emerging research on erythritol and its potential link to cardiovascular risk, particularly for those with existing risk factors. As with any food, moderation is key, and individuals with specific health concerns should consult their healthcare provider.
For more detailed information on sweeteners, the Center for Science in the Public Interest provides useful insights on various low-calorie sweeteners.
