Sweeteners
Aspartame
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Discovered in 1965, approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar.
What it is used for
High-intensity non-nutritive sweetener used in diet beverages, sugar-free gum, yogurt, and tabletop sweeteners. Provides sweetness without calories.
Agency status
The FDA approved it in 1981 with a suggested daily limit of about 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Europe sets a suggested daily limit of about 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. It is approved in the US, Europe, and Canada. Must carry phenylketonuria (PKU) warning. Over 100 countries approve use.
Cautions
CONTRAINDICATED for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) - must be avoided completely. Breaks down into phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol in the body. Some individuals report headaches or other symptoms, though controlled studies show limited evidence. Loses sweetness when heated.
We share agency facts so a label is easier to read. This is not advice to buy, avoid, or use anything.
Related recalls
These FDA and USDA notices mention Aspartame in the product description or the stated reason.
No matching FDA or USDA recall in the current ingest mentions this ingredient by name. Check the full recall list if you are matching a package in your cupboard.