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Ingredient Guide

🇨🇦 Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) on Food Labels in Canada

Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) is permitted with proper declaration in Canada: declare as "steviol glycosides" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Steviol glycosides (E960), marketed as stevia, are high-intensity sweeteners extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, around 200–300 times sweeter than sugar with no calories. In Canada, Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) is regulated under FDR & Safe Food for Canadians Regulations as a food sweetener. Health Canada authorized steviol glycosides in 2012. Must be declared by name in the ingredient list. Can support "no artificial sweeteners" marketing claims.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "steviol glycosides" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "sweetener" and E-number E960
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "steviol glycosides"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Steviol Glycosides (Stevia)
  • Omitting the E-number E960 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"sweetener: steviol glycosides"
"steviol glycosides" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... steviol glycosides ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Reb-A, Stevioside) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Steviol Glycosides (Stevia)" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) and all its common names (Rebaudioside A, Reb-A, Stevioside, Stevia leaf extract) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under Canada rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is steviol glycosides (stevia) (E960)?

Steviol glycosides (E960), marketed as stevia, are high-intensity sweeteners extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, around 200–300 times sweeter than sugar with no calories. It commonly appears in: Diet beverages, "Natural" low-calorie products, Protein bars, Flavoured waters, Yoghurts.

Is steviol glycosides (stevia) bad for you?

EFSA and JECFA set an ADI of 4 mg/kg body weight per day (expressed as steviol equivalents) and consider stevia safe for the general population, including diabetics. Note that "natural sweetener" marketing claims around stevia extracts are restricted in several markets because the extract is highly purified.

How must Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) be declared on food labels in Canada?

Declare as "steviol glycosides" in the ingredient list. Health Canada authorized steviol glycosides in 2012. Must be declared by name in the ingredient list. Can support "no artificial sweeteners" marketing claims.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Steviol Glycosides (Stevia)?

Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) may appear under the following names: Rebaudioside A, Reb-A, Stevioside, Stevia leaf extract, E960, Stevia. Common hidden sources include: Diet beverages, "Natural" low-calorie products, Protein bars, Flavoured waters, Yoghurts, Some breakfast cereals.

Is steviol glycosides (stevia) banned in Canada or other markets?

Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-20

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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