Artificial sweeteners have seen a surge in popularity in America over the past few decades. These sugar substitutes are widely used in diet sodas, low-calorie desserts and snacks to provide sweetness without calories. However, their safety and long term effects continue to be debated by health experts. Let’s take a closer look at the various artificial sweeteners used in the U.S. and the ongoing discussion around their impacts.

Top Artificial Sweeteners in the U.S. Market

There are five main artificial sweeteners approved by the FDA and commonly used in foods and beverages in America.

Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) was one of the first artificial sweeteners introduced in the U.S. in the 1980s. It is around 200 times sweeter than sugar but has zero calories. Aspartame is found in many diet sodas, chewing gums, desserts and tabletop sweeteners. However, there have been concerns raised about its safety with long term use.

Sucralose (Splenda) is another popular sugar substitute that was approved by the FDA in 1998. It is around 600 times sweeter than sugar but devoid of calories. Sucralose is heat stable and often preferred by manufacturers. It is commonly found in baked goods, chewing gums and tabletop sweeteners. While considered safe, some studies have linked it to increased cancer risks.

Acesulfame potassium (Sunett, Sweet One) was approved by the FDA in 1988. It is around 200 times sweeter than sugar but provide no calories. Used along with other sweeteners for an enhanced sweet taste, it is found in sodas, desserts, canned fruits and chewing gums. Its long term safety profile is still being researched.

Saccharin (Sweet’N Low) needs just small amounts to produce a sweet flavor. Discovered in 1879, it was one of the first artificial sweeteners to be commercialized. However, it fell out of favor in the late 1970s due to cancer concerns. Extensive review proved its safety and it was reinstated by the FDA. It continues to be used in tabletop sweeteners and certain foods.

Advantame is a recently developed sweetener approved by the FDA in 2014. It is around 20,000 times sweeter than sugar. Used along with other sweeteners, it is seen giving a sugar-like taste. Advantame is considered the safest so far but long term effects are still unknown given its recent introduction.

Artificial Sweeteners in the U.S. Market - https://www.coherentmi.com/blog/the-growing-use-of-artificial-sweeteners-in-america-66