E951
E951: Aspartame
Moderate concernFunction: sweetener
What is E951?
E951 (Aspartame) is a sweetener used in processed foods.
What the research says
IARC classified it as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) in 2023. JECFA kept the acceptable daily intake at 40 mg per kg. People with phenylketonuria must avoid it.
Regulatory status
| European Union | Approved |
|---|---|
| United States | Approved |
Questions people ask
Is E951 (Aspartame) safe?
IARC classified it as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) in 2023. JECFA kept the acceptable daily intake at 40 mg per kg. People with phenylketonuria must avoid it.
Why is E951 added to food?
It is used as a sweetener.
Does E951 make a food ultra-processed?
Yes. Under the NOVA system, cosmetic additives such as E951 mark a food as ultra-processed.