Ahh… the splenda vs stevia battle continues. Some interesting scientific news came out this week about these two sweeteners.
1. Sweetleaf Stevia is now not only a GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) product but has also received the “no objection” blessing of the FDA. This is considered the gold standard in safety labeling for food. Awesome news, right?! So keep on using Stevia products, although this certification is for Sweetleaf brand only. Check out this link for an easy to understand briefing: http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Legislation/FDA-has-no-objection-to-GRAS-for-SweetLeaf-stevia
2. The research about Splenda/Sucralose that came out last year (see September 28, 2008 post) has come under scrutiny. This study found that using recommended amounts of sucralose decreased helpful bacteria in the guts … of rats. An independent panel (very important detail) of researchers have reevaluated the study and found it lacked scientific rigor. This basically means that the conclusions from the study are not really valid. The sucralose witch-hunt will continue on! Check out the brief at: http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Science-Nutrition/Sucralose-safety-scientifically-sound-Expert-panel
What do you think about this? Which product do you prefer to use and why?
I have used splenda instead of stevia. I am under the impression that splenda is designed to not be able to be absorbed or digested by the body. Because your body is unable to recognize it, the sweetener passes right through and is secreted as waste. As long as this process works, there is no fear of cancer or whatever the hype is about it.
But I am looking to start trying stevia.