For Flavor

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. It is about 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is produced through a chemical process.

Manufacturers add aspartame to foods and beverages to provide sweetness with few or no calories. It is commonly found in diet sodas, sugar-free desserts, and sugar-free chewing gum.

Aspartame is approved by the FDA as a food additive. The FDA has stated that aspartame is safe for the general population, with the exception of individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU). The WHO/IARC has classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans, but other regulatory bodies like EFSA and JECFA have reaffirmed its safety within acceptable daily intake levels. Evidence on its long-term health effects at typical consumption levels is still debated among researchers.