Aspartame
Sweetener
Aspartame at a glance
- Category
- Sweetener
- Also called
- NutraSweet, Equal, Canderel
- Commonly found in
- Diet sodas, Sugar-free gum, Low-calorie desserts, Sugar-free yogurt
- Diets reviewed
- 26 diets
What is Aspartame?
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener known for its low-calorie content. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar), allowing it to be used in small quantities to achieve the desired sweetness. First approved for use in food products in the 1980s, it is widely used in a variety of food and beverage products, particularly those marketed as low-calorie or sugar-free. Chemically, aspartame is a methyl ester of the aspartic acid/phenylalanine dipeptide.
Also known as:
Diet Compatibility
Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener often used in sodas and other beverages. Sometimes, corn may be used in the production of this ingredient.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Aspartame
People avoid aspartame primarily due to potential allergic reactions, especially if they have a sensitivity to phenylalanine, as it is a breakdown product of aspartame. Additionally, individuals with corn allergies or sensitivities might avoid aspartame if corn-derived ingredients are used during its production. There is also some controversy about its safety, although regulatory bodies like the FDA consider it safe for general consumption.
Potential Reactions
- Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Digestive issues
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.
Foods That Commonly Contain Aspartame
Browse products that match your diet.
Explore ProductsRelated to Aspartame
Other ingredients people often check alongside Aspartame.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Spoonful reviews ingredients
- Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
- Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
- Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
- Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
Take the Guesswork Out of Grocery Shopping
Join thousands who use Spoonful to find foods that match their dietary needs.
