Aspartame - use & possible health risks

Aspartame is a synthetic sweetener that is used in many sugar-free foods and drinks due to its intense sweetening power (around 200 times sweeter than sugar) and low calorie content.

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Wissenswertes über "Aspartame"

Aspartame is a synthetic sweetener that is used in many sugar-free foods and drinks due to its intense sweetening power (around 200 times sweeter than sugar) and its low calorie content.

Since its authorisation in the 1980s, aspartame has repeatedly been the focus of scientific and health concerns.The sweetener consists of the two amino acids phenylalanine and aspartic acid as well as a small amount of methanol, which are released in the body during digestion. Due to its chemical structure, aspartame decomposes at high temperatures, which is why it is not suitable for baking and cooking, but is suitable for cold food and drinks.

Aspartame has been extensively investigated in numerous studies and is considered safe if the maximum permitted daily amount (40 mg per kg body weight) is adhered to. Nevertheless, there are always discussions about possible health risks, particularly with regard to possible neurological effects or the influence on the intestinal flora. One important point concerns people with phenylketonuria (PKU), a congenital metabolic disorder. They cannot break down phenylalanine and should therefore avoid products containing aspartame.