Zero-Calorie Sweetener From Stevia Shrub Expected To Get FDA Approval

December 1, 2008 9:04 a.m. EST

Chicago, IL (AHN) - Questions on the safety of sweeteners other than sugar may finally be put to a close with the expected approval soon by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration of the stevia shrub as natural sweetener with zero calories.

Although the FDA had long declared aspartame, saccharin, sucralose and other artificial sweeteners safe, it has been hounded by bad press as cancer-causing agents. While federal laws permit companies to issue on their own safety certifications for ingredients they use, major American beverage companies like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola Company are waiting for the green light so they will not be forced to pull out light drinks if the FDA disapproves stevia.

The shrub belongs to the chrysanthemum family endemic in South America. It has been used by natives as sweetener for their food and beverage for over two centuries. Stevia was initially discovered by Guarani natives in Paraguay, although China today grows 80 percent of the world's stevia production.

Japan had been using stevia for the past 20 years with 40 percent of its sweetener market using the natural sweetener. The shrub grows well in soil and climate of tobacco growing regions.

Stevia is already sold in the U.S. and Europe as a dietary supplement, although it is relatively unknown. It is vended in Canada as a natural health product.

Australia recently okayed the use of stevia as a sweetener, while an international scientific committed associated with the World Health Organization came out with the conclusion that pure stevia extracts are safe.

Even if the FDA approves stevia's use, Freedom group industry analyst Mike Richardson said he expects doubts to linger about its safety. However, he said the plant origin of the natural sweetener will be its best defense against critics.