Debunking myths: what is Splenda made from?
Splenda has been the go-to choice of sweetener for many over the past 25 years, helping millions of people around the world achieve their health and fitness goals by cutting out or reducing their sugar intake. Whether you’re cutting back on sugar or managing a health condition, Splenda offers a way to enjoy the sweeter things in life without the guilt. But you may be wondering, what is Splenda made from?
Let’s dive a little deeper and debunk some of the common myths and questions around the Splenda range.
What is the sweetener in Splenda Brand Sweeteners?
The main ingredient in Splenda Original Sweeteners is sucralose, a high-intensity sweetener that’s 600 times sweeter than sugar. Since it is so sweet, only a very small amount is needed to achieve the same level of sweetness you’d get from sugar, which makes it a smart choice for those looking to lower their caloric intake or avoid health issues associated with high sugar consumption.
Sucralose is well documented and researched. In fact, Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) has confirmed that it is safe to use along with other regulatory, health and food safety authorities around the world.
For those who prefer a plant based sweetener, Splenda Liquid Stevia is a great option for anyone seeking an easy-to-use sugar alternative.
If you are looking for the full list of ingredients, head to our Products page.
Why are dextrose, maltodextrin and erythritol used in some Splenda Brand Sweeteners?
It’s one of the most common questions we get: why do Splenda sweeteners use ingredients like dextrose, maltodextrin and erythritol? Let’s break it down.
Splenda Original
In the Splenda Original, the main sweetening ingredient is sucralose. Since it is 600 times sweeter than sugar, only a small amount is needed to produce a product with the same sweetness as sugar. To ensure that Splenda is ready to use in everyday cooking and baking, ingredients like maltodextrin and dextrose are added. These provide volume and texture, making Splenda behave similarly to sugar when you measure it out.
Splenda Stevia
For Splenda Liquid Stevia, stevia leaf extract is the key ingredient and just like sucralose, it is very sweet on its own – about 200-350 times sweeter than sugar! Blending with other plant based ingredients like erythritol adds volume and texture to the stevia leaf extract so it sweetens like sugar. This ensures the product still tastes delicious and provides the right consistency for use in everything from beverages to delicious bakes.
What happens to sucralose in the body after it is consumed?
Sucralose is not metabolised by the body in the same way as sugar or carbohydrates. Interestingly, most of it passes through the body without being absorbed. The small amount that is absorbed is not broken down for energy in the body and contributes a very low amount of calories. This makes it an excellent choice for those trying to lower their caloric intake.
Can Splenda cause any side effects?
Splenda Brand Sweeteners have no known side effects. Sucralose has been the subject of extensive safety testing, with more than 20 years of research and over 110 scientific studies. Similarly, FSANZ has recognised that many stevia leaf extracts, including the high-purity extracts used in Splenda Stevia, are safe and allowed for use as ingredients in sweeteners and in foods and beverages.
There are no warning labels on the products to exclude anyone from enjoying Splenda.
Splenda has evolved over the years, offering a range of products to cater to various needs and preferences. These include Splenda Granulated, a versatile substitute for caster sugar, Splenda Sachets and Tablets for an on-the-go hit of sweetness and Splenda Stevia Liquid for a plant based alternative.
Whether you want to get your health back on track, limit the amount of sugar in your diet or manage a health condition, there is a Splenda product that can work for you. When adding something new into your diet, we encourage you to consult a trusted physician to guide you based on your individual health needs.