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SWEETENER COMPARISON
Reb A vs Reb M: Buyer Specifications and Sample Checklist
Compare named Reb A and Reb M grades in the real product. Record onset, peak, bitterness and finish at the same sweetness and use the tested dose to compare cost.
Compare candidates at the same perceived sweetness in the finished base. Record the actual dose, process and serving conditions.
Compare at equal sweetness
| Comparison | Reb A | Reb M |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetness | Check assay, full glycoside profile and dose in the actual base. | Check assay, full glycoside profile and dose in the actual base. |
| Calories | Not covered in the source guides — test it in your own base | Not covered in the source guides — test it in your own base |
| Browning | Not covered in the source guides — test it in your own base | Not covered in the source guides — test it in your own base |
| Bulk | Not covered in the source guides — test it in your own base | Not covered in the source guides — test it in your own base |
| Aftertaste | Check bitterness, astringency and linger at agreed checkpoints. | Screen where reduced bitterness or linger is the goal and verify it in the actual base. |
| Stability | Confirm handling, process and storage for the selected grade. | Check dissolution and recheck the sample after the relevant process and storage. |
| Labelling | Confirm glycoside identity and production route. | Confirm glycoside identity and production route. The name alone does not identify the route. |
| Best-fit application | A starting comparison where the current taste and grade fit. | A comparison when the current grade's finish needs improvement. |
| Cost-in-use | Use the tested dose that reaches the target, then compare cost per finished unit. | Use the tested dose that reaches the target, then compare cost per finished unit. |
Which should you trial?
- Beverages
- Use coded samples in the real drink and score first sip, peak and finish separately.
- Products with a bitter finish
- Compare Reb M with the current Reb A at matched sweetness and keep a control.
- Supplier qualification
- Match product code, assay basis, full composition, process and batch COA before comparing accepted doses.
