Cyclamates

Cyclamates are a group of artificial sweeteners. The most common cyclamate is sodium cyclamate, and its calcium and potassium salts are also used. They were discovered in 1937 by a graduate student at the University of Illinois. Cyclamates are about 30 to 50 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). They are often used in combination with other sweeteners to create a more balanced sweet taste and to mask any potential bitter aftertastes.

Cyclamates are not metabolized by the body and are excreted unchanged. This property made them attractive as a sugar substitute for people managing diabetes or seeking to reduce calorie intake. Their stability under heat also made them suitable for use in baked goods and other cooked products.

In the United States, cyclamates were banned for use as a food additive in 1969 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to studies in rats that suggested a potential link to bladder cancer. However, these studies have been subject to debate regarding their methodology and relevance to human consumption. In contrast, cyclamates are permitted for use in food and beverages in many other countries around the world, including Canada, the European Union, and Australia. Regulatory bodies in these regions have reviewed the available scientific evidence and concluded that cyclamates are safe for consumption at established acceptable daily intake levels. The debate over their safety continues, with ongoing research and differing regulatory stances contributing to the complexity of their status.