Comparing E954 - saccharin and its salts vs E960A - Steviol glycosides from Stevia

Why is saccharin banned?

It isn’t broadly banned today; 1970s rat studies linked high doses to bladder tumors, prompting warnings that were later lifted when the rat-specific mechanism was found not relevant to humans.

Is saccharin bad for you?

For most people, no—major regulators consider it safe within the acceptable daily intake (ADI) of up to 5 mg/kg body weight per day; some may dislike its bitter/metallic aftertaste, and evidence of any microbiome or glucose effects is mixed and not conclusive.

Is saccharin banned in europe?

No; it’s authorized in the EU as E954 with specified maximum use levels and an ADI of 5 mg/kg body weight per day.

Does saccharin raise blood sugar?

No—saccharin is non-caloric and does not directly raise blood glucose or insulin; any indirect effects remain uncertain at typical intake levels.

Is saccharin safe?

Yes, when consumed within the ADI (up to 5 mg/kg body weight/day), it’s considered safe by bodies like EFSA, JECFA, and the FDA; past cancer warnings were removed after re-evaluation showed no clear human risk at normal intakes.