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E959 – Neohesperidine DC: Sweetener Overview
E959 (Neohesperidine DC) is a synthetic intense sweetener derived from citrus fruits, approved for use in foods and beverages across the European Union.
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E959 (Neohesperidine DC) is a synthetic intense sweetener derived from citrus fruits, approved for use in foods and beverages across the European Union.
What is E959 (Neohesperidine DC)?
E959, known as Neohesperidine Dihydrochalcone (Neohesperidine DC), is a synthetic sweetener derived from neohesperidine – a naturally occurring flavonoid found in the peel of bitter oranges (Citrus aurantium). Through a chemical process called hydrogenation, neohesperidine is converted into neohesperidine DC, which exhibits a powerful sweet taste. It belongs to the category of intense sweeteners and is approved as a food additive in the European Union.
Properties and Sweetness Intensity
Neohesperidine DC is approximately 250 to 1800 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar), depending on the concentration and the food matrix. It has a characteristic menthol- or liquorice-like aftertaste, which is why it is typically used in combination with other sweeteners or flavourings to achieve a more balanced taste profile. At very low concentrations, it can also act as a flavour enhancer without imparting a noticeable sweetness of its own.
Approval and Uses
E959 is approved under EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. It may be used in a wide range of food categories, including:
- Non-alcoholic flavoured beverages
- Dairy products and dairy-based desserts
- Confectionery and chewing gum
- Baked goods and pastries
- Diet and calorie-reduced products
- Oral hygiene products such as toothpastes and mouthwashes
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) has been established by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) at 5 mg per kg of body weight per day.
Advantages Over Sugar
As an intense sweetener, E959 offers several potential benefits:
- Calorie-free: Neohesperidine DC contributes negligible calories, as it is used in very small quantities.
- Tooth-friendly: It is not fermented by oral bacteria and therefore does not contribute to tooth decay.
- Suitable for diabetics: It does not raise blood glucose levels and may therefore be used by people with diabetes.
Safety and Tolerability
Neohesperidine DC is considered safe when used as intended within the established maximum levels. EFSA has evaluated the substance on multiple occasions and found no evidence of carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, or reproductive toxicity. In cases of excessive consumption, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Individuals with a known sensitivity to citrus fruits should exercise caution when consuming products containing E959.
Labelling Requirements
Foods containing E959 must declare this additive in the ingredients list in accordance with EU labelling regulations – either as E959 or as Neohesperidine DC. There is no requirement for a warning label, unlike aspartame (E951).
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of neohesperidine DC (E 959) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2011. Available at: https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com
- European Union: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives. Official Journal of the European Union, 2008.
- Mortensen A. et al. – Sweeteners permitted in the European Union: safety aspects. Diabetes Obesity and Metabolism, 2017.
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