What is E951?
E951 is Aspartame — 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.
What is E951 (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.
Where is E951 found?
E951 is typically used in diet soft drinks, sugar-free gum, desserts, yoghurts and low-calorie foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E951) or by its full name, aspartame. Common foods that may contain E951 include:
- Diet cola and soft drinks
- Sugar-free gum
- Yoghurts
- Tabletop sweeteners
- Sugar-free desserts
Full guide: foods containing E951 and how to spot it on labels →
E951 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Aspartame safe?
Is E951 safe?
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
Is E951 vegan?
E951 is vegan. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E951 →Is E951 halal?
E951 is halal. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E951 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E951 in food?
E951 is Aspartame — 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 E951 safe to eat?
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 E951 vegan?
E951 is vegan. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E951 halal?
E951 is halal. A synthetic intense sweetener made from two amino acids, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).