Preservative Acesulfame Potassium

Acesulfame potassium, often called Ace-K, is an artificial sweetener. It is a calorie-free sweetener synthesized from acetoacetic acid and is about 200 times sweeter than table sugar. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners.

Manufacturers use acesulfame potassium to add sweetness to foods and beverages without adding calories. It is heat-stable, making it suitable for baked goods, and is commonly found in diet sodas, sugar-free desserts, chewing gum, and tabletop sweeteners.

Acesulfame potassium is approved by the FDA as a food additive. It has been evaluated by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), with both bodies establishing acceptable intake levels. Some studies have raised questions about its long-term effects, but regulatory bodies generally consider it safe at typical consumption levels.