Stevia (Steviol Glycosides)

Also known as: Stevia rebaudiana, Reb A, Truvia, PureVia

Natural sweetener · E960

US-EU Regulatory Divergence

This additive has different regulatory status in the US and EU — what's permitted in one region may be restricted or banned in the other.

Regulatory Status

United States (FDA)

GRAS

Purified steviol glycosides have FDA GRAS status. Whole-leaf stevia is NOT approved as food additive (only as dietary supplement).

European Union (EFSA)

Approved

Approved in EU since 2011. ADI: 4 mg/kg body weight/day (expressed as steviol equivalents).

Safety Profile

Widely regarded as the safest sugar alternative. Derived from a plant. Both US and EU approve purified forms but NOT whole-leaf stevia in foods.

Health Concerns

  • Generally considered safe
  • Some reports of GI discomfort
  • Whole-leaf form not approved for food use in US or EU

Commonly Found In

Zero-calorie beveragesTabletop sweetenerYogurtBaked goods

Sources: FDA Substances Added to Food, EFSA opinions, EU Regulation 1333/2008, IARC monographs

SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.