E956 – Alitame

Alitame, designated as E956, is a high-intensity artificial sweetener approximately 2,000 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). It is synthesized from the amino acids L-aspartic acid and D-alanine, combined with a novel amine. Alitame is notable for its stability under various conditions, including heat and acidic environments, making it suitable for a wide range of food applications. 

Danger Level: 1 – Mostly Safe

Purpose in Products

  • Sweetening Agent: Due to its intense sweetness, alitame is used in minimal quantities to provide the desired sweetness in low-calorie and sugar-free products, such as beverages, desserts, and confectioneries. Its stability makes it particularly useful in baked goods and products requiring long shelf lives. 

Health Considerations

  • Metabolic Processing: Unlike aspartame, alitame does not contain phenylalanine, making it a safer alternative for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU). 
  • Regulatory Status: Alitame has been approved for use in several countries, including Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and China. However, it is not approved for use in the European Union or the United States. In the U.S., the manufacturer withdrew its petition for approval as a sweetening agent or flavoring in food. 

Impact on Children

There is no specific evidence indicating that alitame poses additional risks to children when consumed within established acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels. However, as with all artificial sweeteners, it is advisable to monitor intake, especially in children, to ensure consumption remains within recommended limits.

Impact on Taste

Alitame provides a clean, sweet taste without the bitter or metallic aftertaste associated with some other artificial sweeteners. Its sensory profile closely resembles that of sucrose, making it a favorable choice in product formulations where taste quality is paramount.

Compatibility with Other Additives

Alitame is often used in combination with other sweeteners to achieve a synergistic effect, enhancing overall sweetness and improving flavor profiles. Its stability and compatibility with various food ingredients make it versatile in different formulations.

Natural Occurrence

Alitame is a synthetic compound and does not occur naturally. It is produced through chemical synthesis involving specific amino acids and amines.

Alternatives and Substitutes

Other artificial sweeteners used as alternatives to alitame include:

  • Aspartame (E951): Approximately 200 times sweeter than sucrose, commonly used in beverages and tabletop sweeteners.
  • Sucralose (E955): Approximately 600 times sweeter than sucrose, heat-stable, and suitable for a variety of applications.
  • Steviol Glycosides (E960): Natural sweeteners derived from the stevia plant, about 200–300 times sweeter than sucrose.

Regulation

Alitame (E956) is approved for use as a food additive in certain countries but remains unapproved in others, including the European Union and the United States. Regulatory authorities have established acceptable daily intake levels to ensure consumer safety in regions where it is permitted.

Conclusion

E956 (Alitame) serves as a potent artificial sweetener with favorable stability and taste profiles, making it suitable for various food and beverage applications. While considered safe and approved for use in some countries, it is not universally accepted, with notable exclusions in the European Union and the United States. Consumers should be aware of regional regulatory statuses and adhere to recommended intake levels to ensure safety.