nonnutritive

Nonnutritive is an adjective used in nutrition and food science to describe substances or effects that do not provide meaningful nutrition or energy to the body. In this sense, it contrasts with nutritive components that supply calories, vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients. The term is commonly applied to substances added to foods or used in food preparation that are not intended to contribute nutrition.

In dietary contexts, the most prominent use of the term is with nonnutritive or nonnutritive sweeteners. These are sweetening agents that provide little to no usable energy because they are not absorbed or metabolized in a way that yields significant calories. Examples include saccharin, aspartame, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, steviol glycosides, and monk fruit extract. Some products labeled as nonnutritive blends may still contain trace calories from other ingredients, but the primary purpose is to deliver sweetness without substantial energy. It is important to note that sugar alcohols, while low in calories, are often considered nutritive sweeteners because they can provide some energy and are metabolized differently than regular sugars.

Regulatory and health considerations apply to nonnutritive substances, particularly nonnutritive sweeteners. Agencies evaluate safety and establish guidelines such as acceptable daily intakes. Some individuals, such as people with phenylketonuria, must avoid specific nonnutritive sweeteners like aspartame. Beyond sweeteners, the term can also describe additives or processing aids that contribute little to nutrition, such as certain flavorings or colorings.

Overall, nonnutritive describes components or effects that do not meaningfully add nutrients or calories to the diet, though context and specific substances can influence interpretation.