Acesulfame Potassium Aspartame

Acesulfame potassium and aspartame are two artificial, non-nutritive sweeteners often used together in food products. Acesulfame potassium is a synthetic compound derived from acetoacetic acid. Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener made by chemically combining two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine.

Manufacturers combine acesulfame potassium and aspartame to create a more balanced sweet taste and reduce aftertastes that might occur when using either sweetener alone. This blend is commonly found in sugar-free chewing gum, diet soft drinks, low-calorie desserts, and other reduced-sugar foods.

Both acesulfame potassium and aspartame are approved by the FDA as general-purpose sweeteners. JECFA has evaluated both and set an acceptable daily intake for each. In 2023, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), while JECFA maintained its existing acceptable daily intake, stating that the evidence for harm at current consumption levels is not convincing. Products containing aspartame must include a warning for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) due to its phenylalanine content.