Definition & Meaning of "aspartame"

What is "aspartame"?

Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free products. It is made from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid, along with a small amount of methanol. Aspartame is much sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed to sweeten foods and beverages. It is commonly used in diet sodas, sugar-free desserts, and chewing gum. While it provides sweetness without adding calories, some people may have concerns about its safety, although numerous studies have deemed it safe for consumption at recommended levels. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid aspartame due to its phenylalanine content.