Food additives data book - wordpres

neutral solutions such as dairy products. Sweetness loss from hydrolysis. In alkaline pH solutions,
reacts readily with glucose to reduce aspartame’s sweetness
FOOD SAFETY ISSUES: Allergic dermatitis by ingestion (human systemic). Possible link to neural problems. Headaches,
dizziness to those sensitive to chemicals.
Emits toxic fumes of NOx when heated to decomposition.
Not to be used by individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) as it contains an amino acid the intake of
which must be limited in these individuals. Label must state: “Phenylketonurics: contains
phenylalanine”.
One of the most thoroughly tested food additives; toxicity of components (amino acids, aspartic acid,
phenylalanine) and metabolite (methanol) is dose-related. Expected levels of consumption are not
expected to pose a risk.
Metabolised by the body into methanol and two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine, which
are then further metabolised. All three are available from other foods, so no non-natural chemicals are
being introduced into the body.
Anticariogenic.
Calorific value of 4 calories/g.
Substantial evidence lacking to link aspartame with claims of adverse health effects.
Virtually non-calorific due to intense sweetness.
Average consumption by Canadians 1.7 to 3.7 mg/kg body weight; upper estimate of Canadian intake
5.8 to 16.8 mg/kg body weight; current Canadian consumption levels, even among children, considered
well within acceptable limits.
FDA Advisory Committee on Hypersensitivity to Food Constituents concluded some individuals
have an unusual sensitivity to aspartame, although this does not represent a significant health risk.
Risk to pregnant women of aspartame consumption leading to children with PKU considered
non-existent.
LEGISLATION:
USA:
Approved by FDA in 1974 for use as a sweetener, flavour enhancer and an ingredient in some dry food products.
Approved by FDA in 1983 for use in carbonated beverages and carbonated beverage syrups. Later approved for chewable multivitamin tablets.
Aspartame 917