FDA approves aspartame as soft-drink sweetener
1983
Commentary is given on the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of aspartame (1-methyl-N-L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine) as an artificial sweetener for US soft drinks. This sweetener has the same food value (4 cal/g) as regular sugar, but is 180-200 times sweeter, requiring the use of much smaller amounts. FDA had approved the use of aspartame as a sugar substitute and as an additive to various foods in 1981. In approving its use in soft drinks, FDA reviewed data from over 100 studies, including clinical studies, which indicated that brain neurotransmitters may be affected while taking aspartame in a carbonated beverage while eating carbohydrate-rich foods (e.g., cookies). The US manufacturer of aspartame cautions people with phenylketonuria to be aware of the phenylalanine content of this sweetener. FDA's review concluded that the sweetener is safe, noting its use in soft drinks in Canada for 2 years without reported ill effects. (wz)
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