Aspartame
Synonyms
L-alpha-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester
Description
White powder.
Aspartame is made from two amino acids and methanol. When it is digested, it breaks down into these three parts. Amino acids are the normal breakdown products of proteins.
Uses
Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener used in many foods and drinks.
Because it is between 160 and 200 times sweeter than sugar, only very small amounts are needed to sweeten a product. A typical 12 ounce low-calorie soft drink will have 180 milligrams of aspartame in it.
In acidic solutions at high temperatures, aspartame degrades and looses its sweetness.