Nonnutritive Sweetener

Nonnutritive sweeteners are ingredients that provide sweetness with few or no calories. They can be synthesized or derived from natural sources like plants. Their intense sweetness means only small amounts are needed.

Manufacturers use nonnutritive sweeteners to reduce the calorie and sugar content of foods and beverages. They are commonly found in diet drinks, sugar-free candies, baked goods, and tabletop sweeteners. They can also help manage blood sugar levels.

In the US, many nonnutritive sweeteners are affirmed as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA or approved as food additives. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated many of these sweeteners. Research on the long-term health effects of nonnutritive sweeteners is ongoing, with some studies suggesting potential impacts on gut microbiota and metabolism, while others show no adverse effects at typical consumption levels. Evidence is mixed, and more research is needed.