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Acesulfame potassium (Acesulfame potassium, Acesulfame K, Ace K, Sunett, Sweet One, Acesulfame K, E950)
Acesulfame potassium is a sweetener that has a synthetic origin, which is part of the group of food additives-anti-flaming and glazing agents. In the international classification of food additives, Acesulfame potassium is registered under the index E950.
General Characteristics of Acesulfame Potassium
Discovered in 1967 by the German chemist Karl Klaus, the sweetener Acesulfame potassium belongs to the sulfamide series, the substance is perfectly soluble in water, looks like crystals or powder without color and smell, with a pronounced sweet taste (calorizator). Acesulfame potassium is almost 200 times more sweet than sugar (sucrose), has the same sweetness as aspartame, half the sweetness of saccharin and a quarter – sucralose. E950 has a bitter taste and a metallic aftertaste, so it is usually added to products in combination with sucralose and aspartame, achieving an almost natural taste of sugar.
Chemical formula C4H4KNO4S.
Benefits and harms of Acesulfame Potassium
The final decision of doctors about whether Acesulfame potassium is harmful or useful still does not exist, it is only proven that the substance is not absorbed by the body and is excreted through the kidneys quickly enough. E950 is considered conditionally safe, the positive aspects of the effect of Acesulfame potassium on the human body can be considered its non-interference in metabolic processes and the fact that the substance does not destroy tooth enamel and does not lead to caries.
However, there are studies that confirm increased appetite after eating foods containing E950. Excessive consumption of such products can lead to dehydration, nausea, headache, weakness and irritability. WHO has determined the maximum permissible dose of daily intake of Acesulfame potassium, which is 15 mg/kg of human body weight.
Application of E950
The main application of the E950 supplement is in the food industry, where Acesulfame Potassium is used as a flavor enhancer and sweetener. The substance has a number of advantages over other sweeteners – its sweetness is felt instantly and the structure and properties of the food additive do not change during heat treatment. E950 is used in the production of carbonated beverages, marmalades, jams, dairy products, chewing gum, confectionery, sweeteners, and sugar-free and low-calorie products. As a flavor enhancer, E950 can be found in various canned foods – fish, vegetables and fruits, as well as food additives contain sauces, mustard, ketchup and fruit juices.
In addition to applications in the food industry, E950 is used for the production of toothpastes, mouthwashers, dietary supplements and some medicines.
Using the E950
On the territory of our country, it is allowed to use E950 Acesulfame potassium as a food supplement, subject to strict compliance with the maximum permissible norms of daily consumption.
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