Sweet

Sweeteners are food ingredients added to provide a sweet taste. They can be natural, like sugars, or artificial, created through chemical processes. Some sweeteners are also found naturally in fruits and vegetables.

Sweeteners are widely used to enhance the flavor of foods and beverages. They are commonly found in candies, baked goods, and soft drinks. In savory items like pizza, sandwiches, and processed meats, sweeteners can contribute to browning, fermentation, or balance flavors.

Sweeteners are regulated by the FDA. Some are generally recognized as safe (GRAS), while others are approved food additives. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030) recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. The World Health Organization (WHO) advises keeping intake of free sugars below 10% of total energy intake. Various individual sweeteners have been evaluated by international bodies like JECFA and EFSA, with most having an acceptable daily intake established. Some sweeteners have been the subject of public discussion regarding their long-term health effects, with scientific evidence often being mixed or requiring further study.