Stevia Extract Affirmed GRAS

BLOOMINGDALE, Ill.HealthCo, a division of NOW Health Group, received a GRAS no objection letter from FDA for the use of its stevia extract in foods and beverages.

The extract, Stevia FSE, has been self-affirmed GRAS since May 2010. According to the company, it is extracted from the whole stevia leaf and is not an isolated fraction, like reb A, so does not have the bitter aftertaste typical of reb A ingredients. Further, the stevia extract is enzyme-treated to enhance its organoleptic properties, and is 60 to 100 times sweeter than sucrose.

We have a long history of offering high quality and great tasting natural sweeteners," said Michael Lelah, Ph.D., Technical Director. Given the strong consumer acceptance of our stevia, this additional GRAS status clears the way for expanded use in food and beverage products."

Utilizing the platform of general purpose non-nutritive sweetener for foods and beverages," GRAS status allows manufacturers to add Stevia FSE in a variety of foods and beverages, including baked goods, dairy products, breakfast cereals, confectionery, snack foods, beverages, seasonings and flavors.