Less Than 2%: Sucralose

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener made from sugar. It is produced through a process that selectively replaces three hydrogen-oxygen groups on the sugar molecule with chlorine atoms. This chemical modification makes it about 600 times sweeter than sugar and prevents the body from absorbing most of it.

Manufacturers add sucralose to foods and beverages as a low-calorie sweetener. It is often used in products where a long shelf life and stability under heat are important, such as baked goods, diet drinks, chewing gum, and tabletop sweeteners. Because it is very sweet, only small amounts are needed.

Sucralose is approved by the FDA as a high-intensity sweetener. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sucralose and established acceptable daily intakes. While generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies at typical consumption levels, some studies have raised questions about its potential effects on gut health and metabolism. However, evidence is mixed, and more research is needed to fully understand these potential impacts.