Aspartame

What Is Aspartame?

Aspartame is an artificial (synthetic) sweetener that is much sweeter than table sugar and is therefore used in very small amounts. Because so little is used, it provides sweetness with practically no calories added to a meal; for this reason, it is used in place of sugar in diet and sugar-free products.

It contains amino acids, some of which are converted to phenylalanine during digestion. For this reason, product labels carry a “contains phenylalanine” warning. Since it is not very heat-stable, it is generally used in beverages and cold products rather than hot cooking.

Nutritional Value of Aspartame

Aspartame is so intensely sweet that only a trace amount is used per serving; therefore, its energy (calorie) contribution is negligible in practice, and it is treated as a “calorie-free sweetener.” Its function is to provide sweetness without adding sugar.

How Should Aspartame Be Used?

Aspartame is used in very small amounts, according to the desired sweetness. Because it is not heat-stable, it may lose its sweetness during prolonged high-heat cooking, so it is used mostly in beverages and cold recipes. People diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU) should not use aspartame or products containing it because it contains phenylalanine.

This information is general; aspartame is a food additive (sweetener), not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult a specialist about special dietary needs.

How to Choose Aspartame

Choose aspartame or products containing it that are labeled for food use and have clear labeling, including the phenylalanine warning. Check the ingredients and freshness date; avoid products from an uncertain source.

• It should be labeled for food use and have a clear label
• It should carry a “contains phenylalanine” warning
• The freshness date should be acceptable

How to Store Aspartame

Store aspartame and powdered products containing it in a sealed container in a cool, dry place; moisture and high heat may adversely affect their sweetening power and flavor. Store liquid products according to their label instructions.

Using Aspartame in the Kitchen

Aspartame is used mostly in diet and sugar-free beverages, tabletop sweeteners (tablets/powder), chewing gum, and some sugar-free products. Because it is not heat-stable, it is added to cold or warm preparations rather than long-cooked dishes, in place of sugar and according to the desired sweetness.

Why Is Aspartame Used Sparingly?

Because it is many times sweeter than sugar, a very small amount provides the same sweetness; therefore, it is used in trace amounts and contributes practically no calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should avoid aspartame?

People diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid aspartame because they cannot metabolize phenylalanine; products therefore carry a “contains phenylalanine” warning.

Can you cook with aspartame?

Because it is not stable under prolonged high heat, it may lose its sweetness during cooking; for this reason, it is mostly used in beverages and cold recipes. Heat-stable sweeteners are also available for this purpose.

Is aspartame calorie-free?

Because it is used in very small amounts, its calorie contribution is negligible in practice; this is why it is used in place of sugar in diet products. Even so, use in moderation and according to the label is recommended.