Research studies have demonstrated a number of other health benefits in the use of Reb A. It has been shown to have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels and is effective in lowering blood pressure. Additionally research indicates that it significantly increases glucose tolerance and inhibits glucose absorption.
Pricing
It is difficult to make a direct comparison between Reb A and sugar. While Reb A is more expensive per kilo; the fact that it is between 350 to 450 times sweeter must be taken into account. It is also predicted that the increased levels of commercial production required to meet market demand following GRAS status will result in significant economies of scale and an associated price reduction for the product.
Demand for biofuels and continuing price increases of both high fructose corn syrup and sugar have also created favorable market conditions for Reb A.
Summary
• Natural high-intensity, non-nutritive sweetener
• Excellent taste—350 to 450 times sweeter than sugar
• Soluble in water (0.8% solubility in water) and alcohol bases
• High stability in acid and alkaline solutions (pH 3-9)
• High tolerance to temperature up to 200 C
• High stability under light
• Greater sweetness prolongation vs. sugar
• Sweetness stability in all production processing conditions
• Outstanding storage and shelf life properties and ability to withstand normal warehouse conditions
• Flavor enhancer used with either salt, organic acids or amino acids, e.g. fruity flavor
• Nontoxic; extensively tested in animals and extensively used by humans with no adverse effects
• Sugarless with no calories; will not affect blood sugar levels and so highly recommended for diabetics
Sidd Purkayastha, Ph.D., is the Technical Director of Pure Circle, USA. Prior to joining PureCircle, he worked for more than 20 years at Tate & Lyle. Dr. Purkayastha has broad experience in the structure-function of food ingredients, including sweeteners, starch, acids and hydrocolloids. He earned his doctorate in food engineering from the University of Massachusetts and an M.B.A. from the University of Illinois.
PureCircle (LSE:PURE) is the world’s leading producer of high-purity Rebaudioside A (Reb A), with a vertically integrated supply chain operating in three continents. Activities range from the sourcing of dry stevia leaves and extraction, refining of Reb A into sweeteners and marketing of these sweeteners to food and beverage manufacturers worldwide.