The use of Stevia rebaudiana as food ingredient in European Union was not allowed up to 2017.
Only the extract from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Berini as a sweetener (according to Regulation no. 1333/2008 on food additives) or as a flavoring (according to Regulation no. 1334/2008 on flavoring) was allowed.

Stevia leaves as a food ingredient should be considered as a novel food; however, there is one exemption since the Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni can be used in tea, herbal and fruit infusions.

Source: European Union