acesulameK

Acesulfame potassium, commonly referred to as acesulfame K or Ace-K, is an artificial sweetener used to replace sugar in many low-calorie foods and beverages. It is the potassium salt of acesulfamic acid and is about 200 times sweeter than sucrose. It is usually used in combination with other sweeteners to enhance sweetness and mask aftertastes.

Acesulfame K is heat-stable and acid-stable, remaining sweet during cooking and in acidic products. It provides no calories and is not metabolized by the body for energy; most of it is excreted unchanged in urine.

Regulatory status: It has been evaluated by authorities such as the U.S. FDA, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). They have established an acceptable daily intake of 15 mg per kg of body weight per day. It is permitted in many countries and carries the EU additive code E950.

Uses: Commonly found in sugar-free beverages, chewing gums, baked goods, dairy products, and confectionery. It is often blended with other sweeteners such as aspartame or sucralose to achieve a balanced sweetness profile.