Dulcin: Difference between revisions

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'''Dulcin''' is an artificial sweetener that was discovered in the late 19th century. It is approximately 250 times sweeter than [[sugar]], but has a slightly bitter aftertaste. Dulcin was used as a sugar substitute in the early 20th century, but its use has since been discontinued due to health concerns.
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== History ==
== Overview ==
'''Dulcin''' is a synthetic [[chemical compound]] that was historically used as an [[artificial sweetener]]. It is known for its sweet taste, which is approximately 250 times sweeter than [[sucrose]]. Dulcin was first synthesized in 1883 by the Polish chemist [[Joseph Berlinerbau]].


Dulcin was discovered in 1884 by the German chemist [[Joseph Wilhelm Remsen]]. He was searching for a way to create a sweetener that was less expensive than sugar, and stumbled upon dulcin during his research. Dulcin was widely used as a sugar substitute in the early 20th century, particularly during World War I when sugar was in short supply. However, its use declined in the mid-20th century due to health concerns.
== Chemical Structure ==
Dulcin is chemically known as ''p-ethoxyphenylurea''. Its [[molecular formula]] is C9H12N2O2. The compound consists of a phenyl group attached to an ethoxy group and a urea moiety. The presence of the ethoxy group contributes to its sweet taste.


== Health Concerns ==
[[File:Dulcin.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of Dulcin]]


In the 1950s, studies began to emerge suggesting that dulcin could have harmful effects on the liver. These studies led to a decline in the use of dulcin, and it was eventually banned in many countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. Today, dulcin is not used as a sweetener and is considered to be a potential health risk.
== History ==
Dulcin was introduced as a sweetening agent in the early 20th century. It gained popularity as a sugar substitute due to its intense sweetness and low caloric content. However, concerns about its safety led to a decline in its use.


== Chemical Properties ==
== Safety and Regulation ==
In the mid-20th century, studies raised concerns about the potential [[toxicity]] of Dulcin. Animal studies suggested that it might have [[carcinogenic]] properties, leading to its ban in several countries. The [[United States Food and Drug Administration]] (FDA) banned Dulcin in 1950.


Dulcin is a derivative of [[phenetidine]], a compound that is also used in the production of certain pharmaceuticals. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water and alcohol. Dulcin has a sweet taste, but also a slightly bitter aftertaste that can be off-putting to some people.
== Uses ==
Before its ban, Dulcin was used in various [[food]] and [[beverage]] products as a sugar substitute. It was particularly popular in [[dietary]] products aimed at individuals seeking to reduce caloric intake.


== See Also ==
== Related Compounds ==
Dulcin is part of a class of compounds known as [[artificial sweeteners]]. Other well-known artificial sweeteners include [[saccharin]], [[aspartame]], and [[sucralose]]. These compounds are used to provide sweetness without the calories associated with sugar.


== Related pages ==
* [[Artificial sweetener]]
* [[Artificial sweetener]]
* [[Sugar substitute]]
* [[Saccharin]]
* [[Joseph Wilhelm Remsen]]
* [[Aspartame]]
* [[Sucralose]]


[[Category:Food and drink]]
[[Category:Chemical compounds]]
[[Category:Artificial sweeteners]]
[[Category:Artificial sweeteners]]
{{food-stub}}
[[Category:Organic compounds]]

Latest revision as of 03:31, 13 February 2025


Overview[edit]

Dulcin is a synthetic chemical compound that was historically used as an artificial sweetener. It is known for its sweet taste, which is approximately 250 times sweeter than sucrose. Dulcin was first synthesized in 1883 by the Polish chemist Joseph Berlinerbau.

Chemical Structure[edit]

Dulcin is chemically known as p-ethoxyphenylurea. Its molecular formula is C9H12N2O2. The compound consists of a phenyl group attached to an ethoxy group and a urea moiety. The presence of the ethoxy group contributes to its sweet taste.

Chemical structure of Dulcin

History[edit]

Dulcin was introduced as a sweetening agent in the early 20th century. It gained popularity as a sugar substitute due to its intense sweetness and low caloric content. However, concerns about its safety led to a decline in its use.

Safety and Regulation[edit]

In the mid-20th century, studies raised concerns about the potential toxicity of Dulcin. Animal studies suggested that it might have carcinogenic properties, leading to its ban in several countries. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned Dulcin in 1950.

Uses[edit]

Before its ban, Dulcin was used in various food and beverage products as a sugar substitute. It was particularly popular in dietary products aimed at individuals seeking to reduce caloric intake.

Related Compounds[edit]

Dulcin is part of a class of compounds known as artificial sweeteners. Other well-known artificial sweeteners include saccharin, aspartame, and sucralose. These compounds are used to provide sweetness without the calories associated with sugar.

Related pages[edit]