Sucralose
A heat-stable, near-zero-calorie artificial sweetener produced by chemically chlorinating sugar. About 600 times sweeter than sugar, it is used in many “sugar-free” products.
What Is Sucralose?
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener made by replacing some of the hydroxyl groups in sucrose (table sugar) molecules with chlorine atoms. This chemical change makes the molecule about 600 times sweeter than sugar and also prevents the body from digesting and using it as calories.
It is usually sold as a powder or tablet mixed with maltodextrin or similar bulking agents; this makes it easier to measure and substitute for sugar by volume.
Nutritional Values of Sucralose
Pure sucralose contains practically 0 calories and generally does not raise blood sugar. Because commercial products contain bulking agents, the calorie value on the package may differ from that of pure sucralose.
How Should Sucralose Be Used?
Sucralose is used in moderate amounts as a sugar substitute as part of a balanced diet.
This information is general; sucralose is a sweetener and is not a substitute for medical treatment. People monitoring their blood sugar or following a special diet are advised to check the product label and the recommended daily amount.
How to Choose Sucralose
A good sucralose product is from a reliable brand and clearly lists the amount of sucralose and any bulking agents in its ingredients.
- The ingredients should clearly list the amount of sucralose and any bulking agents.
- The package should not have absorbed moisture or become clumped.
- The directions should state the conversion ratio for replacing sugar.
How to Store Sucralose
Sucralose can be stored for a long time at room temperature in its sealed container in a dry cupboard; it is a chemically stable compound.
Using Sucralose in the Kitchen
Sucralose is used most often to sweeten drinks, in cake and cookie recipes, and in ready-made products labeled “sugar-free”; because it is heat-stable, it does not lose its sweetness during baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sucralose made from sugar?
Its raw material is sugar, but chemical processing changes its structure; the resulting molecule is not used by the body like sugar.
Are sucralose and aspartame the same?
No; they are different sweeteners with different chemical structures. Sucralose is heat-stable, while aspartame may lose its sweetness at high temperatures.
Is sucralose available in Türkiye?
It is widely available and can be found in sugar-free and diet-product sections of large supermarkets and in pharmacies.