Does Trader Joe's Stevia Have Maltodextrin? What You Need to Know

November 13, 2025 •

2 min read

Over 75% of American households regularly use some form of sugar substitute, making ingredient transparency a major concern for many shoppers. For those asking, "Does Trader Joe's stevia have maltodextrin?", the answer is not a simple yes or no; it depends on whether you choose the powdered packets or the liquid form.

Quick Summary

The ingredients in Trader Joe's stevia vary by product, with the powdered packets containing organic cassava maltodextrin, while the liquid drops are a blend of steviol glycosides, deionized water, and organic alcohol. The presence of maltodextrin in the powder version impacts those concerned about blood sugar spikes and gut health, a consideration not present with the filler-free liquid drops.

Key Points

Powdered Stevia contains maltodextrin: Trader Joe's Organic Stevia powder packets include a small amount of organic cassava maltodextrin, used as a processing aid.
Liquid Stevia is maltodextrin-free: The brand's Organic Liquid Stevia drops do not contain any maltodextrin, using only deionized water and organic alcohol as carriers.
Maltodextrin can affect blood sugar: Unlike pure stevia, the maltodextrin in the powder has a high glycemic index and can cause a blood sugar spike, a critical consideration for diabetics.
Maltodextrin may impact gut health: Some studies link maltodextrin to adverse effects on gut bacteria, potentially increasing risks for inflammatory bowel diseases.
Check product ingredients carefully: Because labeling laws do not require listing maltodextrin when it is below 2%, it is essential to be aware of the differences between the two products.
Alternative brands are available: For those seeking powdered stevia without maltodextrin, alternative brands are available, often using erythritol or inulin as bulking agents.

Navigating the world of sugar substitutes can be complex, especially when ingredients vary across a brand's product line. At Trader Joe's, the ingredient list for their popular stevia sweetener differs significantly between the powdered packets and the liquid drops. Understanding these differences is key for consumers monitoring their sugar intake or digestive health.

The Breakdown of Trader Joe's Stevia Ingredients

Powdered Stevia Packets

Trader Joe's Organic Stevia powder packets contain organic cassava maltodextrin. Due to the low quantity, it is not required to be listed on the packaging. This is an important detail for those actively avoiding maltodextrin.

Liquid Stevia Drops

Trader Joe's Organic Liquid Stevia is formulated without maltodextrin. Its ingredients include deionized water, organic steviol glycosides, and organic alcohol. This liquid version is suitable for those seeking a filler-free option.

Why Maltodextrin is a Point of Concern

Maltodextrin raises concerns for health-conscious consumers for several reasons:

High Glycemic Index: It has a high GI, potentially causing blood sugar spikes, unlike pure stevia.
Gut Health: Some studies suggest maltodextrin may negatively affect gut bacteria balance and potentially increase the risk of inflammatory bowel disease.
Processing: Despite being derived from natural starches, maltodextrin is a highly processed ingredient.

Comparing Trader Joe's Stevia Products

Here is a comparison of Trader Joe's two main stevia products:


Feature	Trader Joe's Organic Liquid Stevia	Trader Joe's Organic Stevia Powder Packets
Key Ingredients	Deionized Water, Organic Steviol Glycosides, 11% Organic Alcohol	Organic Cassava Maltodextrin, Organic Steviol Glycosides
Contains Maltodextrin?	No	Yes (as a processing aid)
Best For	Beverages like coffee and tea, keto diets, individuals avoiding fillers, those sensitive to blood sugar spikes.	General sweetening, convenience in packets.
Texture	Liquid drops that dissolve easily.	Fine powder that can sometimes leave a residue.
Glycemic Impact	Zero	Can cause a minor spike due to maltodextrin content.
Convenience	Dropper bottle, requires careful counting of drops.	Pre-portioned packets for on-the-go use.

Alternative Stevia Brands Without Maltodextrin

Several alternative brands offer stevia products without maltodextrin, often using erythritol or inulin as fillers. Always verify ingredients.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Diet

If avoiding maltodextrin is a priority, choose Trader Joe's Organic Liquid Stevia. The powdered packets contain organic cassava maltodextrin, which can affect blood sugar and gut health. The liquid version provides a pure, filler-free option. Always check ingredients.

Trader Joe's official website offers product feedback to confirm ingredient details directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Trader Joe's sells at least two different stevia products: an Organic Liquid Stevia and an Organic Stevia powder in packets. The ingredient lists differ significantly between the two.

Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index and can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, which is a significant concern for people with diabetes. Pure stevia, on the other hand, does not affect blood sugar.

Trader Joe's has stated that the amount of organic cassava maltodextrin used in their powdered stevia is a 'very, very small amount, far less than 2%,' meaning it is not required by law to be listed on the product label.

Pure stevia is simply the extracted sweet components from the stevia leaf, while stevia with fillers like maltodextrin adds a bulking agent to make it measure like sugar. The fillers can affect blood sugar and gut health, unlike the pure extract.

The maltodextrin in stevia products is a filler to provide bulk, not for its health benefits. It is a quickly-digested carbohydrate that can be a source of rapid energy, but it has no nutritional value.

For those seeking a product without fillers that won't impact blood sugar, the liquid stevia is the better option. However, the powder offers convenience in single-serve packets for on-the-go use.

Alternatives include Trader Joe's own liquid stevia, or other brands that offer stevia products without maltodextrin, such as SweetLeaf, NOW Foods BetterStevia, or Pyure Organic.