Is Aspartame Safe?
Aspartame is the additive E951 — one of the most tested — and most argued-about — additives ever. Approved by every major regulator, classified 'possibly carcinogenic' by IARC in 2023 at extreme doses.
Is Aspartame safe to eat?
E951 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E951 is not considered harmful.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — acceptable daily intake (ADI) or conditions of use apply
Source: European Food Safety Authority
What is Aspartame?
E951 is the E-number for aspartame, one of the artificial & intense sweeteners group of food additives (E900–E999). Additives in this group sweeten foods with fewer or zero calories than sugar. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids. In 2023 the WHO's IARC classified aspartame as 'possibly carcinogenic' (Group 2B — the same group as pickled vegetables), while the WHO's own food additive committee simultaneously reaffirmed the existing safe intake of 40mg/kg — about 14 cans of diet drink a day for an adult. People with the rare condition PKU must avoid it. Like every E-number, E951 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E951 in detail below.
What foods contain Aspartame?
E951 (Aspartame) is typically found in:
- Diet cola and soft drinks
- Sugar-free gum
- Yoghurts
- Tabletop sweeteners
- Sugar-free desserts
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aspartame bad for you?
E951 is approved at regulated levels in the EU, UK and US, but some concerns exist — see the safety section above. Most people can consume it in normal amounts without harm.
Is Aspartame vegan?
E951 is vegan. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is Aspartame halal?
E951 is halal. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids, with no haram source involved.
Full guide to E951 (Aspartame) →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).