E960 · Steviol Glycosides (Stevia)
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E960?
Natural non-caloric sweeteners extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, roughly 200-400 times sweeter than sugar. Rebaudioside A (Reb A) is one of the most common high-purity components used commercially. EFSA and the FDA (as a GRAS-notified ingredient) consider steviol glycosides safe within established acceptable daily intake levels.
Also appears on labels as: Steviol Glycosides (Stevia), Steviol Glycosides, Stevia, Stevia extract, Rebaudioside A, Rebaudioside D, Rebaudioside M, Stevia sweetener, Stevia leaf extract, Stevia rebaudiana extract, E960, E 960.
What the evidence says
- Some people report a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste, which is a sensory rather than safety concern.
- Limited reports of mild digestive upset (bloating, nausea) at very high intake, though this is not well established in controlled studies.
Frequently asked questions
Is E960 safe?
Our overall verdict for E960 (Steviol Glycosides (Stevia)) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E960 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E960 and why is it used?
Natural non-caloric sweeteners extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, roughly 200-400 times sweeter than sugar. Rebaudioside A (Reb A) is one of the most common high-purity components used commercially. EFSA and the FDA (as a GRAS-notified ingredient) consider steviol glycosides safe within established acceptable daily intake levels.
Does E960 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Steviol Glycosides (Stevia).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.