Is Monk Fruit Extract Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Monk Fruit Extract is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called luo han guo. CAS 88901-36-4.
Other names: luo han guo, swingle fruit extract, mogroside V
Is Monk Fruit Extract banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Lakanto Monk Fruit Sweetener, Bai Drinks, Purely Elizabeth Granola, Whole Earth Sweetener, Simple Truth products |
| CAS number | 88901-36-4 |
What is Monk Fruit Extract?
Monk fruit extract is derived from the fruit of Siraitia grosvenorii, a melon native to southern China. Its sweetness (150–250 times that of sucrose) comes from mogrosides, particularly mogroside V, rather than simple sugars. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The FDA granted GRAS status in 2010.
Why is Monk Fruit Extract used in food?
Used as a high-intensity, zero-calorie natural sweetener in beverages, protein products, and low-sugar foods as an alternative to artificial sweeteners.
Is Monk Fruit Extract dangerous? Documented risks
Currently considered safe with no significant adverse effects reported in human studies. Animal studies have shown mogrosides to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and possible anti-diabetic properties. No carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or reproductive toxicity has been identified. Due to its relatively recent introduction as a food additive in Western markets, long-term human safety data are more limited compared to older sweeteners. Overall, the safety profile is favorable.
Common US products containing Monk Fruit Extract
How to avoid Monk Fruit Extract: safer alternatives
Stevia is the most comparable natural zero-calorie sweetener. Dates, bananas, or small amounts of raw honey provide unrefined sweetness.
Frequently asked questions about Monk Fruit Extract
Is monk fruit safe?
Yes. FDA granted GRAS status in 2010, and safety studies show no significant adverse effects.
Is monk fruit sweetener natural?
It is derived from a natural fruit, but commercial extracts undergo significant processing to isolate mogrosides.
Is monk fruit banned in the EU?
No. It is permitted in the EU, though novel food applications have been reviewed by EFSA.
Does monk fruit raise blood sugar?
No. Mogrosides are not metabolized to glucose and have a glycemic index of 0.
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Sources
- FDA GRAS Notice 347 — Monk Fruit Extract — FDA
- Luo han guo (Siraitia grosvenori): A review of phytochemistry and pharmacology — PubMed/NCBI
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.