Aspartame
This is what the ingredient is.
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Discovered in 1965, approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar.
Here is why it shows up on the label.
High-intensity non-nutritive sweetener used in diet beverages, sugar-free gum, yogurt, and tabletop sweeteners. Provides sweetness without calories.
Here is what food agencies say.
The FDA approved it in 1981 with a suggested daily limit of about 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Europe sets a suggested daily limit of about 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. It is approved in the US, Europe, and Canada. Must carry phenylketonuria (PKU) warning. Over 100 countries approve use.
Here is what research has found.
Most studied artificial sweetener with over 200 studies. FDA, EFSA, WHO deem it safe at approved levels. IARC (2023) classified as "possibly carcinogenic" (Group 2B) while an FAO/WHO expert committee reaffirmed ADI, noting no convincing evidence of harm at approved levels.
Here are a few things worth knowing.
CONTRAINDICATED for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) - must be avoided completely. Breaks down into phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol in the body. Some individuals report headaches or other symptoms, though controlled studies show limited evidence. Loses sweetness when heated.
Sources
- FDA Approval 1981
- EFSA Opinion 2013
- IARC Monograph 2023
- JECFA Report 2023
How to read this page
We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.