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[Teratogenicity study of stevioside in rats]
Eisei Shikenjo Hokoku. Bulletin of National Institute of Hygienic Sciences
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Stevioside, a sweetener, was tested for teratogenicity in pregnant rats. Results indicate stevioside is not teratogenic, with no adverse effects observed even at high doses.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Natural Product Safety
Context:
- Stevioside is a widely used natural sweetener derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant.
- Assessing the safety of food additives, especially during pregnancy, is crucial for public health.
- Previous studies on stevioside's safety have yielded mixed results, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the potential teratogenic effects of stevioside in a rodent model.
- To determine the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) of stevioside in pregnant Wistar rats.
Summary:
- Pregnant Wistar rats were administered stevioside daily via gavage from day 6 to 15 of gestation at doses of 0, 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg/day.
- Fetal examination on day 20 revealed no increased incidence of malformations in any treatment group.
- No maternal toxicity or adverse effects on fetuses were observed in pregnant rats exposed to stevioside.
Impact:
- This study provides evidence that stevioside does not pose a teratogenic risk to rats under the tested conditions.
- The findings support the safety of stevioside consumption during pregnancy.
- The estimated no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) exceeds 1000 mg/kg/day, suggesting a wide safety margin.