Stevia… Is It Finally U.S. Bound?
Stevia, the south American herb that’s been used as a sweetener for years, but rejected by the FDA as being unsafe (despite the fact that its been consumed for nearly 30 years in Japan with no adverse effects noted) may be finally coming to the United States.
Coca-Cola and Cargill are the force behind this; they are combining forces to create a product called Rebiana. Although we’ll have to wait and see, it does not look like Rebiana will be some sort of “franken-food” either. According to the Cargill web site…
“Rebiana comes from the leaf of the stevia plant, which was discovered more than 200 years ago in South America and used as a sweetener in various parts of the world for more than two decades. Rebiana consists of only the best-tasting components of the stevia leaf, and does not have a lingering aftertaste. “
Stevia offers plenty of benefits; it has no effect on blood sugar and is safe for diabetics. It may also prove to be a more acceptable than some of the more controversial low calorie sweeteners.
It’s about time!
