Stevioside, also known as steviol glycosides, stevia glycosides, stevioside, is a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana, a plant in the Asteraceae family. The following is a detailed description of its properties and uses:
1. Properties
Chemical structure: The chemical formula of stevioside is C38H60O18. which is a kind of glycoside.
Physical state: Stevioside is usually white or yellowish powder, easily soluble in water, ethanol and methanol, insoluble in benzene, ether, chloroform and other organic solvents.
Sweetness: The sweetness of stevia is extremely high, 200~300 times of sucrose, but the calorie is very low, only 1/300 of sucrose.
Stability: Stevia is a non-fermentable substance, stable and not easy to mold. It is stable in acid and salt solutions, and is also stable at room temperature. It will absorb moisture quickly, and its solubility is more than 40% at room temperature.
Taste: Stevia sugar has a slightly astringent flavor, of which stevia A glycoside has a distinct bitter taste and a certain degree of astringency and menthol flavor. When the concentration is higher, there may be a sense of off-flavor.
2. Uses
Food industry:
Low-calorie sweetener: due to the high sweetness and low calorie properties of stevia sugar, it is often used as a low-calorie sweetener for the production of sugar-free or low-sugar foods, such as candies, beverages, pastries and so on.
Flavorings: Stevia can also be used in flavorings to increase the sweetness and taste of food.
Pharmaceutical industry:
Auxiliary treatment: Stevia sugar has the efficacy of regulating blood sugar, lowering blood pressure and antioxidant, which can be used to assist in the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, obesity and other conditions. For example, it can stimulate the secretion of insulin and improve the cellular uptake and utilization of glucose, thus helping to lower blood sugar levels.
Drug excipients: Stevia sugar can also be used as a drug excipient for improving the taste and stability of drugs.
Other areas:
Nutraceuticals: Stevia can be used in the production of nutraceuticals, providing the body with a sweet flavor while also bringing certain health benefits.
Cosmetics: Stevia has an antioxidant effect and can be used in cosmetics to help delay skin aging.