Acesulfame
What is Acesulfame?
Acesulfame K (or acesulfame potassium) is a high-intensity artificial sweetener. It is synthesised chemically, typically from acetoacetic acid and urea. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar).
Is Acesulfame vegan?
Acesulfame is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Acesulfame gluten-free?
It is not a source of gluten.
Is Acesulfame a major allergen?
Acesulfame K is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Acesulfame used for?
It is used to provide sweetness in a wide range of sugar-free or reduced-sugar products.
Is Acesulfame safe?
Acesulfame K is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
It is used to provide sweetness in a wide range of sugar-free or reduced-sugar products. Manufacturers add it because it is stable under heat and in acidic conditions, making it suitable for baking and carbonated drinks. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners to achieve a more balanced taste profile.
Health notes
Acesulfame K is an authorised food additive in Great Britain, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. European food safety authorities, including EFSA, have evaluated it. Evidence regarding its long-term health effects at typical consumption levels is generally considered robust by regulatory bodies, though some public debate continues. It is not metabolised by the body and is excreted unchanged.
Allergen info
Acesulfame K is not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It is not a source of gluten.
Foods that contain Acesulfame
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