Sulcrose

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener made from sugar. It is about 600 times sweeter than sugar and is not metabolized by the body, meaning it provides no calories. It is produced through a multi-step chemical process that replaces three hydroxyl groups on the sugar molecule with chlorine atoms.

Manufacturers use sucralose as a zero-calorie sweetener in a wide variety of food and beverage products. It is often found in diet drinks, baked goods, dairy products, and tabletop sweeteners. Its stability under heat and in acidic conditions makes it versatile for many food applications.

Sucralose is approved by the FDA as a high-intensity sweetener. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sucralose and established acceptable daily intakes. Some studies have raised questions about its potential effects on gut bacteria and its stability at high temperatures, but regulatory bodies have generally affirmed its safety at typical consumption levels. More research is ongoing.