aspartamecontaining

Aspartame-containing refers to foods, beverages, and other products that include aspartame as a non-nutritive sweetener. Aspartame is about 200 to 300 times sweeter than sugar and is used in a wide range of items, including diet sodas, sugar-free desserts, dairy products, tabletop sweeteners, and some medicines.

In the body, aspartame is rapidly broken down into its components—phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol. Because phenylalanine is released, individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder, must avoid aspartame. For the general population, regulatory agencies have established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) to ensure safety. The ADI is commonly cited around 40 to 50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, with actual consumer exposure typically well below this limit.

Labeling and regulation: Many jurisdictions require labeling that the product contains aspartame and, for products sold to the general public, a warning for phenylalanine content directed at PKU patients. Some medicines and supplements also include aspartame. Regulatory agencies periodically review new data to reassess safety.

Safety and controversy: Comprehensive reviews by agencies such as the FDA, EFSA, and WHO have found aspartame safe for the general population at or below the established ADI. There is no consistent evidence linking typical aspartame intake to cancer or chronic diseases, though a small number of individuals report headaches or intolerance, and research on these effects remains inconclusive.

Usage trends: Since the latter part of the 20th century, aspartame has been widely used as a sugar substitute in many low-calorie products, though choices and labeling practices vary by market.