Ingredient · Updated

Stevia Sweetener

Neutral in 5

Found in 5 products

What is Stevia Sweetener?

Stevia sweetener is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. The sweet compounds, mainly steviol glycosides, are extracted and purified to create a low-calorie sweetener.

Stevia is used as a sugar substitute in a variety of food and beverage products, providing sweetness without adding calories. Research generally considers it safe, and some studies suggest potential benefits like helping manage blood sugar levels, though evidence can be mixed regarding health benefits.

On labels, stevia may be listed as steviol glycosides or by specific names like Rebaudioside A. It’s important to know it is a plant-derived sweetener, used as a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners.

Commonly found in: soft drinks, protein powders, yogurts, baked goods, ice creams

Benefits

  • Zero-calorie option for reducing sugar intake.
FDA

Stevia sweeteners derived from steviol glycosides are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Research

Studies indicate stevia may aid blood sugar control, but more research is needed to confirm all health benefits.

Vegan

Stevia is plant-derived and is suitable for vegan diets.

Sources: Notice of GRAS status

Scout's take

Stevia sweetener is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It is processed to extract sweet compounds, providing sweetness without calories. It is a popular alternative to sugar for those managing calorie intake.

The case for

Provides sweetness without calories and does not affect blood sugar levels.

from the analysis of Body Armor zero BODYARMOR SuperDrink Zero Sugar Lemon Lime · echoed in 1 other analysis

Provides sweetness without adding calories, suitable for calorie-conscious diets.

from the analysis of Popwell Tropical Mango

More from Scout's analyses

Stevia sweetener is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is used as a sugar substitute without significant health concerns. It does not affect blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetics.

from the analysis of Body Armor zero BODYARMOR SuperDrink Zero Sugar Lemon Lime

Stevia sweetener is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It is considered safe and does not impact blood sugar levels. It is a preferable alternative to artificial sweeteners.

from the analysis of BODYARMOR ZERO Sugar Bottled Sports Drink Fruit Punch

Natural zero-calorie sweetener from the stevia leaf. No significant health concerns, but Scout treats all stevia forms as neutral — neither penalized nor counted as a beneficial ingredient.

from the analysis of Quest Protein Shake Chocolate

All 5 products with Stevia Sweetener

Where Stevia Sweetener shows up

Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.