PROCESSING OF STEVIA PLANTS FROM SEEDLINGS TO LOW-CALORIE SUGAR IN KLIRIPAN VILLAGE, HARGOREJO, KOKAP, KULONPROGOPROCESSING OF STEVIA PLANTS FROM SEEDLINGS TO LOW-CALORIE SUGAR IN KLIRIPAN VILLAGE, HARGOREJO, KOKAP, KULONPROGO

Abstract

Most additional sweeteners are usually made from cane sugar, but excessive sugar consumption can cause health problems. To overcome this, alternative sweeteners such as stevia can be used. Stevia is a plant from the Compositae family that contains stevioside with a sweet taste but few calories. The sweetness level of stevia is much higher than cane sugar and can be a healthier alternative. Stevia plants can be easily grown and provide a low-calorie sugar option that is good for health, especially for individuals who care about their health. Through education and awareness, stevia can help reduce the risk of diseases caused by high-calorie sugar consumption. Therefore, KKN UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta Group 28 batch 114 students have conducted socialization of stevia plant processing into low-calorie sugar in Kliripan Hamlet, Hargorejo, Kulonprogo, where the majority of the population is elderly. The aim is to provide an understanding of plant processing and the benefits of sugar from stevia plants and reduce the risk of disease due to the use of high-calorie sugar. This activity includes introducing stevia plants, processing them into liquid sugar, and planting stevia seeds.