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Neotame(E961)

Level 4 — Significant concernsIn Winter's Dictionary

Neotame is a artificial sweetener — Sugar substitute approved by FDA 2002; ~8,000x sweeter than table sugar

What it does

Sugar substitute approved by FDA 2002; ~8,000x sweeter than table sugar

Where you'll see it

carbonated soft drinks, chewing gum, refrigerated and nonrefrigerated beverages, gelatins, puddings, jams, jellies, processed fruits, syrups, frozen desserts, yogurt, baked goods, candies

What the research says

Contains aspartic acid, phenylalanine, and a methyl ester like aspartame. Some scientists view as toxic and carcinogenic like aspartame. Aspartic acid and glutamic acid load on same brain receptors, causing identical brain lesions and neuroendocrine disorders in animal studies.

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: ASP
  • EU: approved
  • Notes: Made by NutraSweet Company; not for meat/poultry; broken down differently than aspartame; no PKU warning required

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): Some eminent scientists, however, view neotame, like aspartame, contains aspartic acid, phenylalanine, and a methyl ester, as toxic and carcinogenic