Sweetener

Sweeteners are substances used to impart a sweet taste to foods and drinks. They can be natural or artificial. Artificial sweeteners are typically many times sweeter than sugar, meaning smaller amounts are needed to achieve the same level of sweetness.

Manufacturers use sweeteners to reduce the calorie content of foods and drinks, or to provide sweetness for people managing their sugar intake. They are commonly found in diet or 'sugar-free' versions of beverages, yoghurts, confectionery, and baked goods.

Sweeteners are subject to rigorous safety assessments by regulatory bodies. In Great Britain, many sweeteners are authorised food additives, listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations and assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 sets their conditions of use. EFSA has evaluated sweeteners and established acceptable daily intakes (ADIs) for many of them. Evidence on the long-term health effects of sweeteners is ongoing, with some studies exploring potential impacts on gut microbiota and metabolism, though findings are not always conclusive and require further research.