Acesulfame potassium

Acesulfame potassium is a calorie-free artificial sweetener, also known as Acesulfame K or Ace K, which was discovered in 1967 by Hoechst AG.

Acesulfame potassium is the potassium salt of 6-methyl-1,2,3- oxathiazine-4(3H)-one-2,2-dioxide.

Acesulfame K is about 200 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar) with a slightly bitter flavor when used in large quantities. Unlike aspartame, it is stable under heat, allowing it to be used in baking. Acesulfame K is often used in combination with aspartame or other sweeteners because it has a synergistic effect of enhancing and sustaining the sweetness of foods and beverages.

This artificial sweetener is white crystalline powder with molecular formula of C₄H₄NO₄KS and molecular weight of 201.24.

Acesulfame K was first approved by the FDA on July 6, 1988. In December of 2003 a general approval was granted.

Safety of usage of Acesulfame K was also examined by JECFA, with the conclusion that Acesulfame K is safe to use. This examination also established an ADI of 15 mg/kg of body weight.

The Scientific Committee for Food of the European Union published a comprehensive assessment of sweetening agents in 1985. This committee of toxicological experts from the EU member countries accepted Acesulfame K for use in foods and beverages. Acesulfame K has been used in Europe since 1983 and in the U.S. since 1988.

Some individuals and organizations suggest that artificial sweeteners, such as Acesulfame K and aspartame, pose severe health risks. However, their claims are usually refuted by the vast body of peer-reviewed research. In this case, most studies show that Acesulfame K is not metabolized by the human body; rather, it is rapidly absorbed and then excreted unchanged, causing no adverse effects in the process.

Popular products containing acesulfame K include Pepsi ONE, Trident gum, and sugar-free Jell-O. Acesulfame K is sold under the brand names Sunett™ and Sweet One.