Chronic Oral Toxicity and Carcinogenicity Study of Steviol, a Metabolite of Stevioside, in Hamsters

The carcinogenic potential of steviol, a metabolite of/ stevioside (a compound that is used as a sweetener for food and drink), was examined in hamsters of both sexes. Groups of 55 male and 55 female hamsters were given diets containing steviol at 0, 100 and 500 mg/kg diet for 22 months in males and 18 months in females. After 6, 12 and 22 months in males and 18 months in females. hamsters from each group were sacrificed for hematological and biochemical tests. Growth food utilization and consumption, general appearance and mortality were similar in treated and control groups. The mean life span of hamsters given steviol was not significantly different from that of the controls. No treatment-related changes were observed in hematological, urinary and biochemical values at any stage of the study. There was no significantly altered development of neoplastic or non-neoplastic lesions attributable to steviol treatment in any organ or tissue. The highest level oj steviol in the diet which still causes no effects in hamsters was 500 mg/kg diet, under the experimental conditions used.