Aspartame And Acesulfame Potassium

Aspartame and acesulfame potassium are artificial, high-intensity sweeteners. Aspartame is made from two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine, while acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) is a potassium salt of an organic acid.

Manufacturers often use these sweeteners together to achieve a more sugar-like taste and reduce aftertastes, especially in sugar-free or low-calorie products. They are commonly found in diet beverages, gelatin desserts, puddings, and other reduced-sugar foods.

Both aspartame and acesulfame potassium are approved food additives by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Aspartame contains phenylalanine, so products containing it must carry a warning for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder. JECFA has evaluated both aspartame and acesulfame potassium and set acceptable daily intakes for each. In 2023, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), while JECFA reviewed the evidence and maintained its existing acceptable daily intake, stating there was no convincing evidence of harm at typical intake levels.