Overview
Steviol glycoside is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. It is composed of several glycosides, including stevioside and rebaudioside A, which are responsible for its intense sweetness. Unlike artificial sweeteners, steviol glycoside is plant-derived and contains no calories, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers and food manufacturers. The compound is widely used in the food and beverage industry as a sugar substitute, particularly in products marketed as low-calorie or diabetic-friendly. Its stability under high temperatures also makes it suitable for use in baked goods and processed foods. Regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EFSA have approved its use, further boosting its adoption in global markets.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Steviol glycoside appears as a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 804.88 g/mol. It is highly soluble in water and alcohol, which facilitates its incorporation into liquid formulations such as soft drinks and syrups. The compound has a melting point of 196-198°C and remains stable under typical food processing conditions, including pasteurization and baking. One of its most notable properties is its sweetness intensity, which is 200-300 times greater than that of sucrose. Despite this, it has no caloric value, as the human body does not metabolize the glycosides. This makes it an ideal ingredient for reducing sugar content without compromising taste. Additionally, steviol glycoside does not promote tooth decay, further enhancing its appeal in oral care products like sugar-free chewing gum.
Main Applications
The primary application of steviol glycoside is in the food and beverage industry, where it serves as a natural sugar substitute. It is commonly found in products such as soft drinks, yogurts, candies, and baked goods. Its high sweetness intensity allows manufacturers to use minimal quantities, reducing costs and caloric content without sacrificing flavor. Beyond food, steviol glycoside is used in dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals, particularly in products aimed at weight management and diabetes care. Its stability and compatibility with other ingredients make it versatile for various formulations. In recent years, the demand for natural sweeteners has surged, driven by consumer preferences for clean-label products, further expanding its market potential.
Safety and Storage
Steviol glycoside is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and other regulatory agencies worldwide. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or nausea, in sensitive individuals. It is advisable to adhere to recommended daily intake levels to avoid adverse effects. Proper storage is essential to maintain the compound's quality. It should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Sealed containers are recommended to prevent contamination and degradation. Suppliers often provide storage guidelines, which should be followed to ensure the product's longevity and efficacy.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring steviol glycoside for industrial use, several factors should be considered to ensure quality and compliance. First, verify the purity level, which typically ranges from 95% to 99%. Higher purity grades are preferred for food and pharmaceutical applications. Second, check for relevant certifications, such as ISO, Halal, or Kosher, which may be required depending on the target market. Supplier reliability is another critical factor. Established suppliers with a track record of compliance with food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, EFSA) are preferable. Pricing can vary significantly based on purity, quantity, and supplier, so obtaining multiple quotes is advisable. Bulk purchases may offer cost savings, but storage capacity and shelf life should also be considered to avoid waste.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：甘氨酸、甘氨酰、阻燃剂、甲醇钠、蒽甲酯、十八酸、溴壬烷、肉桂醇、葱油醇、肉桂醛、异丁酯、赖氨酸、叔丁醇、多佐胺、醛试剂、醇酯-12、乙氧基、脯氨酸、牛胆粉、癸酸酯、化合物、氟苯基、敏材料、氨酰胺、扁油酸
- 主营：酒渣碱、异常山乙素、芦丁标准品、甜菊双糖甙、对照品标准品
- 主营：氟苯基、n-氯乙酰、二氧杂葵、甜菊双糖甙、氟喹唑啉、氮杂吲哚、正亮氨酸、乙氧基杯、邻苯二甲、氟苯氧基、羟基吡啶、丁基二氟、乙酰基对、溴异喹啉、噻唑羧酸、氟苯甲酸、氟甲基吡嗪、异丙氧羰基、异硫氰酸酯、酯苯磺酸盐、甲氧基溴苄、苄氧基羰基、丝氨酸苄酯、硫氰酸苯酯、氧胆酸中间体、高丝氨酸内酯