Authority source
Safety basis: FDA
FDA
Aspartame
E 951L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester
Sweetener
Aspartame is a man-made sweetener used to replace sugar in foods and drinks. It's made from two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine, and is about 200 times sweeter than sugar.
What it is
Aspartame is a synthetic sweetener made from two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine.
Found in
diet sodas, sugar-free gum, low-calorie desserts, tabletop sweeteners
The concern
Some people may be sensitive to aspartame, which can cause symptoms like headaches or digestive issues, but these are rare.
Legal status
Approved for use in foods and beverages by the FDA, but banned in some countries due to concerns over potential health effects.
Low Concern
The FDA has approved aspartame for use in foods and beverages, and numerous studies have shown it to be safe for consumption.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Community questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Another sweetener in the reviewed ingredient set.
Stevia
Another sweetener in the reviewed ingredient set.
Sucralose
Another sweetener in the reviewed ingredient set.
Xylitol
Another sweetener in the reviewed ingredient set.
Fluoride
Another sweetener or oral-care ingredient commonly compared in label checks.
Sodium Fluoride
Another sweetener or oral-care ingredient commonly compared in label checks.
Last updated: June 6, 2026