Aspartame is a widely used artificial sweetener that has been around for decades. It's about 200 times sweeter than sugar, so a small amount can provide the same level of sweetness as much larger quantities of sugar. Here's a breakdown of the key points about aspartame:
Properties:
- Aspartame is a dipeptide, meaning it's formed by linking two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine.
- It's a white, odorless, crystalline powder that dissolves readily in water.
Uses:
- Aspartame is a popular sugar substitute found in various low-calorie or sugar-free foods and beverages, including:
- Diet sodas
- Sugar-free chewing gum
- Yogurt products
- Tabletop sweeteners
- Bakery products (in some cases)
