E 960a Steviol glycosides from Stevia

What is E 960a?

E 960a is the E number of Steviol glycosides from Stevia. Sweeteners extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant. They are about 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar and are used in drinks and table-top sweeteners.

Where is E 960a most commonly used?

Steviol glycosides mainly sweeten reduced-calorie soft drinks, yoghurts and table-top sweeteners. They are often combined with other sweeteners such as erythritol.

What is E 960a used for?

E 960a belongs to the group "Sweeteners" and is used as sweetener.

• Sweetener: Sweeteners impart a sweet taste. They are used in foods or as table-top sweeteners.

Which foods may contain E 960a?

According to the European Commission's database, E 960a may be used in 33 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Dairy products and analogues
• Edible ices
• Fruit and vegetables
• Confectionery
• Cereals and cereal products
• Bakery wares
• Fish and fisheries products
• Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
• Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
• Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
• Beverages
• Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
• Desserts
• Food supplements
• Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 960a vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 960a linked to genetic engineering?

No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.

How does E 960a appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Sweetener: E 960a" or "Sweetener: Steviol glycosides from Stevia".