Have you ever heard of aspartame? This food additive, discovered by chance by chemist James Schlatter, is a true sweet phenomenon.
In 1961, during his research to develop an ulcer drug, Schlatter had a curious incident. While mixing the components, a small amount of the substance spilled onto his hands.
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Interestingly, when he licked his finger to pick up a sheet of paper, he felt an unexpectedly sweet taste. Intrigued, he connected the dots and realized that the liquid that had touched his fingers was responsible for that amazing taste.
This compound, later known as aspartame, turned out to be 200 times sweeter than aspartame. sugar common. Only a small amount is needed to achieve the same level of sweetness provided by sucrose.
What are the functions of aspartame?
According to the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), it is classified as a sweetener and flavor enhancer.
As a sweetener, aspartame imparts a sweet taste to foods, while as a flavor enhancer, it enhances and enhances the flavors and aromas present in foods.
However, it is important to highlight that the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), linked to the World Health Organization (WHO), considers aspartame as a possible carcinogen. This classification has generated debates and further studies on the subject.
In terms of safety, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) establishes a maximum daily intake of 50 mg/kg of aspartame.
In Brazil, the maximum limits vary according to the type of food. For foods and beverages intended for diets with controlled intake of sugars, the limit is 750 mg/kg.
How to know if the food has aspartame or not?
You must be wondering where you can find aspartame. Nutritionist Henrique Carreira explains that it is present in foods labeled “no added sugar” and also in “diet” foods. In practice, the difference between them is directed at the target audience.
For those who follow a healthy diet and diets restrictive, dietary foods are indicated mainly for people with diabetes, while those labeled “sugar-free” are aimed at consumers looking for healthier options or following diets restricted.
However, it is important to note that diet products may also contain other sweeteners, such as xylitol and stevia. To find out if a product contains aspartame, just check the label.
What foods is it found in?
Among the foods and beverages in which aspartame is commonly found are chewing gum, powder mixes for coffees and cappuccinos, tabletop sweeteners, powdered juices, jellies, soft drinks and even effervescent vitamin tablets W.
It is interesting to note that, on the Coca-Cola website, the company denies rumors that aspartame is harmful to health.
More research on the substance
Recently, new research has brought attention to aspartame. Although its consumption has been considered safe until then, results of studies have led aspartame to be included in the priority list for assessment of the carcinogenic potential by IARC and the risk of acceptable daily intake by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). These results are being awaited and should be released soon.
Aspartame consumption in Brazil
In Brazil, the use of sweeteners, including aspartame, is authorized by Anvisa, which carries out safety assessments based on FAO and WHO guidelines.
The agency continues to closely monitor scientific advances related to the topic, demonstrating its commitment to ensuring food security for the population.
In this way, although its consumption is considered safe within the limits established by the regulators, the possible association of aspartame with cancer has aroused scientific interest and is in the process of of evaluation.
Finally, Anvisa stated that it continues to monitor research and take the necessary measures to ensure consumer safety.