[aric]

> Stevia is new and it is being promoted by big industry...

Stevia, the plant, is not new. Menacing industry in that equation is artificial sweetener interests that used government(s) to ban importation and ban the option to label stevia as a sweetener in the United States and elsewhere. It was still widely sold, bought, and consumed. Strains vary. Some have a bitter aftertaste. Some are bred to be mostly sweet with minimal aftertaste. Whether it's consumed as dried plant matter, ground, or as newer extracts, a wide sampling sifts out tasty, palatable strains.

> I am fine with it being on the market...

I'm fine with lettuce being on the market. It's smart to be skeptical about everything, especially on an individual level, and more so given your experience. I avoid artificial sweeteners, also. Not enjoying the taste helps.