Monk Fruit

The newest sweetener has arrived! What is this sweetener, you ask, and is it safe?

Monk fruit or lo han guo is grown in the valleys and foothills of sub-tropical Asia. The fruit extract, aka monk fruit or lo han guo, is about 200 times sweeter than sugar and is a natural zero-calorie sweetener.  

So far, the studies have shown that there are no negative effects of the sweetener. The Chinese even go as far as saying that it treats colds, sore throats, and stomach ailments.

So how do they make this fancy sweetness? Well, the processors crush the fruit and infuse it with hot water to extract the sweetener.

Looks like this could be a winner. Now the question is does it taste as good as it sounds?