Stevia drops guide: FDA status, ingredients and how to use them
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- SweetLeaf Organic SteviaClear Sweet Drops. Best for: Unflavored liquid sweetening. See options on Amazon
- SweetLeaf Vanilla Creme Liquid Stevia. Best for: Flavoring coffee without syrup. See options on Amazon
- Plain liquid stevia extract. Best for: Everyday tea and coffee. See options on Amazon
What the FDA says about stevia
The FDA lists steviol glycosides among plant and fruit-based sweeteners with GRAS notices it has not questioned. It says it has not questioned notifiers' GRAS conclusions for high-purity stevia-derived sweeteners, but that the use of stevia leaf and crude stevia extracts is not considered GRAS.
The FDA notes steviol glycosides are reported to be 200 to 400 times sweeter than table sugar, that their safety has been extensively studied, and that several chronic and clinical studies in humans have been conducted demonstrating no adverse effects. An acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 4 mg/kg body weight per day, expressed as steviol equivalents, was established by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives.
What's in a bottle of stevia drops
| Product | Listed ingredients or description | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| SweetLeaf Organic SteviaClear Sweet Drops | Organic glycerin, purified water, organic natural flavors, organic stevia leaf extract | Unflavored sweetening in drinks and recipes |
| SweetLeaf Vanilla Creme Liquid Stevia | Made with stevia; described as gluten-free and free of carbohydrates | Coffee, oatmeal and desserts |
| Plain liquid stevia (any brand) | Check the label for the base, extract and any flavors | Tea, coffee and water |
Details are from SweetLeaf's product pages. Ingredient lists vary by brand and flavor, so read the label on the bottle you buy.
Leaf extract vs high-purity extract
The FDA's distinction between high-purity steviol glycosides and crude stevia extracts matters when you shop. Products sold as sweeteners in the U.S. typically use purified extracts; the FDA does not consider whole stevia leaf or crude extracts GRAS for use in food. Labels may say stevia leaf extract, steviol glycosides or Reb A; when in doubt, choose a product from a maker that describes its extract and lists every ingredient.
How to use stevia drops
- Start small. Drops are concentrated, so begin with one or two and add more to taste.
- Drinks first. Liquid stevia blends easily into coffee, tea, smoothies and water.
- Baking. Stevia adds sweetness but not the bulk, browning or moisture of sugar, so use recipes written for liquid stevia.
- Flavored drops can replace syrups in coffee, but check whether the flavor fits the recipe.
- Aftertaste. Some people notice a bitter or licorice-like note; using less, or trying another brand, may help.
Storing and choosing a bottle
Keep the cap tightly closed and store the bottle as the label directs, away from heat. Glycerin-based drops like SweetLeaf's SteviaClear list glycerin and purified water as the base, so the bottle is mostly carrier liquid with a small amount of extract. When comparing brands, look for a full ingredient list, a clear description of the stevia extract used, and any added flavors or alcohol you may want to avoid. A small bottle is a good way to test the taste before buying a larger size, since aftertaste differs from brand to brand.
Stevia vs monk fruit and other sweeteners
The FDA lists three plant and fruit-based sweeteners with GRAS notices it has not questioned: steviol glycosides, monk fruit extract and thaumatin. Monk fruit extract is reported to be 100 to 250 times sweeter than sugar, compared with 200 to 400 times for steviol glycosides. See our monk fruit sweetener guide for that comparison and the erythritol question in granulated blends.
Based on the available scientific evidence, the FDA says sweeteners it has authorized are safe for the general population under certain conditions of use.
Who should check with a professional
If you have diabetes, a sweetener can be part of your plan, but overall carbohydrate intake still matters; ask your doctor or dietitian how sweeteners fit. If you are pregnant or choosing products for children, follow your provider's advice on sweeteners.
For drinks to pair with a few drops, see our matcha powder guide and ginger tea guide. For a sweet-tasting breakfast add-in with fiber, see our chia seeds guide.
What to look for when you buy
SweetLeaf Organic SteviaClear Sweet Drops
Best for: Unflavored liquid sweetening
SweetLeaf lists organic glycerin, purified water, organic natural flavors and organic stevia leaf extract.
Watch out: Start with one or two drops.
See options on AmazonSweetLeaf Vanilla Creme Liquid Stevia
Best for: Flavoring coffee without syrup
SweetLeaf describes it as made with stevia, gluten-free and free of carbohydrates.
Watch out: Flavor may not suit every recipe.
See options on AmazonPlain liquid stevia extract
Best for: Everyday tea and coffee
The FDA reports high-purity steviol glycosides are 200 to 400 times sweeter than sugar.
Watch out: Read the full ingredient list; brands vary.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- Are stevia drops safe?
- The FDA has not questioned GRAS conclusions for high-purity steviol glycosides; crude leaf extracts are not considered GRAS.
- How sweet is stevia?
- The FDA says steviol glycosides are reported to be 200 to 400 times sweeter than table sugar.
- Is there a daily limit for stevia?
- An ADI of 4 mg/kg body weight per day, as steviol equivalents, has been established.
- How many drops of stevia equal a teaspoon of sugar?
- It varies by brand; follow the bottle's directions and start with one or two drops.
- Is stevia better than monk fruit?
- Both have GRAS notices the FDA has not questioned; choose by taste and ingredients.
Sources
- Aspartame and Other Sweeteners in Food (fda.gov), U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- Organic SteviaClear Sweet Drops (no longer online), SweetLeaf
- Vanilla Creme Liquid Stevia (sweetleaf.com), SweetLeaf