How does stevia compare with other sugar substitutes?
Aspartame What is it: Two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine; and methanol. Brand names are Equal and NutraSweet. How it’s used: Equal tabletop sweetener, diet soft drinks such as Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi, some sugar-free desserts including gelatin desserts, yogurt, and puddings. Advantages: Tastes similar to sugar. Enhances sweet flavors, especially fruit flavors. Drawbacks: Should not be consumed by those with phenylketonuria (PKU). Controversy continues about whether aspartame is linked to increased cancer rates. Government agencies say it is safe. A recent study from an Italian cancer institute found more lymphomas and leukemia in rats fed very large amounts of aspartame. The consumer group Center for Science in the Public Interest recommends avoiding it and is calling for more testing. Loses sweetness at high temperatures, making it a poor choice for baked goods. Saccharin What is it: Benzoic sulfinide. How it’s used: Sweet’N Low tabletop sweetener, Tab diet cola, salad
