Status of Stevia in the EU
The
Stevia plant and its extracts are currently not approved as Novel Food or
food additive by the European Commission.
In
September 2007, two applications for the approval of Stevia and its extracts
were submitted to the SCF and EFSA of the European Commission:
An
application for the approval of Stevia leaves as Novel Food (BRD) and a
second application for the approval of the extracts of Stevia leaves
(Steviol Glycoside) as food additive.
Reisenberger
GmbH belongs to the official applicants for both admission procedures.
Latest news:
Mid of April 2010 the EFSA (European Food Safety
Authority) evaluated the dossier of EUSTAS (with applicant Eubiotica –
Reisenberger GmbH) and classified
stevia as inoffensive for human health. Herewith they gave the green
light for accreditation of stevia as food additive/sweetener.
Until
the official registration (estimated in 6-9 months) the acceptance of the
European commission, as well as of the several member states of the EU is
needed.
Exceptions within the EU
On the
11th of September 2008, France has approved the temporary use of
Steviol Glycosides (> 97% Rebaudiosid A). (Afssa – French Food Safety
Agency, provisional two-year authorisation, up from 11.09.2008)
In
Switzerland, Steviol Glycosides are approved in a specific sports drink
(> 95% Steviol Glycosides). There is no general approval of Stevia as
food additive. Products containing Stevia require individual permissions
for the use of Stevia.
In Russia,
Steviol Glycosides are not prohibited as sweeteners or food additives.
However, each new product containing Stevia needs an individual approval.
Status of Stevia worldwide
USA: Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) – The GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) affirmation of Steviol
Glycosides (> 97% Reb. A) attests, that the use of Stevia for food is
harmless.
South
America (Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina, etc.): There are no restrictions
concerning the use of Stevia as sweetener for food.
Asia
(China, Japan,
Korea, India, Indonesia, Israel, Malaysia, Taiwan): There are no
restrictions concerning the use of Stevia as sweetener for food.
Australia
& New Zealand: Steviol Glycosides (> 95%) have been approved as sweeteners for
food and beverages since 2008.
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