Aspartame

What Is Aspartame?

Aspartame is an artificial (synthetic) sweetener that is far sweeter than table sugar, which is why it's used in very small amounts. Used in small quantities, it provides sweetness with practically no calories added to the meal; for this reason it is preferred over sugar in diet and sugar-free products.

Its structure contains amino acids, and part of it converts to phenylalanine during digestion. This is why labels carry a "contains phenylalanine" warning; since it is not very heat-stable, it is generally used in beverages and cold products rather than in hot baking.

Nutritional Value of Aspartame

Since aspartame is extremely sweet, it is used in trace amounts per serving; so in practice its energy (calorie) contribution is negligible and it's regarded 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, adjusted to the desired sweetness; being heat-unstable, it can lose its taste in long, high-heat cooking, so it's mostly preferred in beverages and cold recipes. People diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU) should not use aspartame or aspartame-containing products, since it contains phenylalanine.

This information is general; aspartame is a food additive (sweetener), not a substitute for medical treatment. A specialist should be consulted for special dietary conditions.

How Is Aspartame Selected?

Aspartame or products containing it should be chosen as "food grade" with a clear label (including the phenylalanine warning). Check the ingredients and best-before date; products of unclear origin are not preferred.

• Should be "food grade" with a clear label
• Should carry a "contains phenylalanine" warning
• Should have a valid best-before date

How Is Aspartame Stored?

Aspartame and aspartame-containing powder products are stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place; moisture and high heat can adversely affect sweetening power and taste. Liquid products are kept according to label conditions.

Using Aspartame in the Kitchen

Aspartame is used most in diet/sugar-free beverages, tabletop sweeteners (tablet/powder), gum and some sugar-free products. Due to its heat instability, it is added according to desired sweetness in cold-lukewarm applications rather than long cooking, in place of sugar.

Why Is Aspartame Used in Small Amounts?

Since it is many times sweeter than sugar, a very small amount gives the same sweetness; this is why it is used in trace amounts and adds practically no calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should avoid aspartame?

People diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot metabolize phenylalanine, so they should avoid aspartame; this is why products carry a "contains phenylalanine" warning.

Can you cook with aspartame?

Since it is not stable under long, high heat, it can lose its sweetness during cooking; for this reason it is mostly used in beverages and cold recipes. Heat-stable sweeteners exist separately for that purpose.

Is aspartame calorie-free?

Since it is used in very small amounts, its calorie contribution is practically negligible; this is why it is preferred over sugar in diet products. Still, it should be used in moderation and according to the label.