As Sweeteners
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.
What it is
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. It is about 200 times sweeter than sugar and provides virtually no calories. It is produced through a chemical synthesis process.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use aspartame to provide sweetness in foods and beverages with fewer calories than sugar. It is commonly found in diet soft drinks, sugar-free chewing gum, gelatin desserts, and powdered drink mixes. It is not stable at high temperatures, so it is often added to products after cooking or baking.
Health notes
Aspartame is approved by the FDA as a food additive. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated aspartame and established acceptable daily intake levels. While generally recognized as safe by these organizations, some studies have explored potential links between aspartame consumption and various health outcomes, though conclusive evidence remains mixed and debated within the scientific community.
Allergen info
Aspartame is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.