Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
The food additive E960 (steviol glycosides) is a popular natural-origin, zero-calorie sweetener obtained from the leaves of the stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana).
The food additive E960 is 200–300 times sweeter than sugar, contains no calories, and does not raise blood glucose levels; therefore, it is widely used in products for people with diabetes.
Steviol glycosides represent a group of natural diterpene glycosides whose structural core is the aglycone steviol (C20H30O3). The most common glycosides are stevioside (C38H60O18) and rebaudioside A (C44H70O23).
The additive E960 is typically supplied as a white or slightly creamy crystalline powder with no pronounced odor. It is readily soluble in water, moderately soluble in ethanol, and practically insoluble in non-polar organic solvents.
Steviol glycosides exhibit high thermal stability (withstand temperatures up to 200 °C) and retain their sweet taste across a wide pH range.
According to the International System for the Classification and Numbering of Food Additives Codex Alimentarius: CXG 36-1989, several categories of steviol glycosides are distinguished depending on the method of production:
- E960a — plant-derived steviol glycosides obtained directly from an aqueous extract of stevia leaves (Stevia rebaudiana) followed by multistage purification.
- E960b (fermentation-derived steviol glycosides) — produced using genetically modified yeasts (Yarrowia lipolytica or Saccharomyces cerevisiae) that synthesize glycosides from sugars.
- E960c (enzymatically produced steviol glycosides) — manufactured by treating plant extracts with enzymes to convert bitter glycosides into sweeter ones.
- E960d (glycosylated steviol glycosides) — obtained by attaching additional glucose residues to glycoside molecules via an enzymatic reaction.
Effects on the Body
Benefits of Additive E960
The food additive E960 (steviol glycosides) is recognized by EFSA as a safe alternative to sugar.
Due to its zero glycemic index and absence of calories, the food additive E960 plays an important role in dietary therapy for type 2 diabetes and obesity, benefiting individuals with metabolic disorders and those controlling body weight.
Experimental studies have shown that steviol glycosides may enhance insulin secretion through a direct effect on pancreatic β-cells, indicating their potential role in supporting glucose homeostasis.
Other scientific studies confirm the non-allergenic nature of additive E960 and the absence of a cariogenic effect, as steviol glycosides are not fermented by oral bacteria.
In addition, some data indicate a moderate positive effect on blood pressure due to the ability of stevioside to dilate blood vessels during long-term consumption.
Risks of Additive E960
Although additive E960 is considered safe, its consumption has certain precautions, primarily regarding its effect on the gut microbiome: some studies indicate that steviol glycosides may inhibit the growth of certain beneficial bacterial strains, potentially disrupting metabolic balance.
For individuals taking medications for hypertension or diabetes, there is a risk of a synergistic effect, in which stevia may excessively enhance drug action, leading to critically low blood pressure or blood glucose levels.
Cases of individual intolerance have also been reported, manifesting as bloating, nausea, or digestive disturbances, especially when exceeding the acceptable daily intake of 4 mg/kg body weight.
Uses
Steviol glycosides are widely used as a low-calorie sweetener in various food products. The additive E960 is added to soft drinks, juices, yogurts, desserts, and confectionery products.
In addition, the sweetener E960 is used in food formulations for people with diabetes or in reduced-calorie products.
Legal Status
The food additive E960 is permitted in most countries worldwide, including the EU, Ukraine, the USA, Canada, and Japan, and is regulated by relevant food additive standards.
It is included in the International System for the Classification and Numbering of Food Additives Codex Alimentarius: CXG 36-1989.
In the EU, the food additive E960 is authorized for use in food products in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, and in Ukraine — under analogous harmonized regulations.
To ensure safety and consistent taste, food standards require a minimum content of 95 % steviol glycosides in additive E960.
In the United States, the FDA recognizes highly purified steviol glycosides (purity ≥ 95 %) as GRAS, while whole stevia leaves and crude extracts remain prohibited for use in foods.
Similar high-purity and standardization requirements apply in Japan, Canada, and Australia.