As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, neotame is a high-intensity artificial sweetener that is chemically similar to aspartame. It is marketed as a sugar substitute and is several thousand times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). Neotame is produced by NutraSweet, a company that also produces aspartame.
Here are some key points about neotame based on available information up to 2022:
1. Chemical Composition:
Neotame is derived from aspartame and is a dipeptide molecule composed of aspartic acid and phenylalanine, two amino acids. It also contains a methyl ester group, which makes it significantly sweeter than aspartame.
The addition of the methyl ester group in neotame contributes to its increased stability compared to aspartame, allowing it to be used in a wider range of food and beverage applications, including those requiring prolonged shelf life or exposure to high temperatures.
2. Sweetness and Usage:
Neotame is approximately 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sucrose, depending on the concentration.
Due to its intense sweetness, only a small amount of neotame is needed to achieve the desired level of sweetness, making it a cost-effective sugar substitute in food and beverage products.
3. Stability:
Neotame is stable under a variety of conditions, including heat and acidic or alkaline environments. This stability makes it suitable for use in a wide range of food products, including baked goods, beverages, and processed foods.
4. Regulatory Approval:
Neotame has received regulatory approval for use as a food additive in various countries, including the United States, European Union, and others.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved neotame for general use in food products in 2002.
5. Safety:
Neotame, like aspartame, contains phenylalanine, and therefore, it may not be suitable for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of phenylalanine.
Overall, regulatory agencies such as the FDA have determined that neotame is safe for consumption by the general population when used within established limits.
6. Availability:
Neotame is commercially available in various regions and is used by the food and beverage industry as a sugar substitute.
7. Research:
Studies and research on neotame have generally focused on its safety, stability, and applications in the food industry.
Please note that the information provided here is based on my last update in January 2022, and there may have been further developments or research findings since then. It’s advisable to check more recent sources for the latest information on neotame.