Acesulfame potassium

Artificial sweetener

Acesulfame potassium, also known as acesulfame K or Ace-K, is a calorie-free artificial sweetener. It is used in various food and beverage products to provide a sweet taste without the calories associated with sugar.

Chemical structure and properties

Acesulfame potassium is a potassium salt of 6-methyl-1,2,3-oxathiazine-4(3H)-one 2,2-dioxide. It is a white crystalline powder with a chemical formula of C_H_KNO_S. The compound is stable under heat and moderately acidic or basic conditions, making it suitable for use in cooking and baking.

Structural formula of acesulfame potassium

Ball-and-stick model of acesulfame potassium

Sweetness and taste profile

Acesulfame potassium is approximately 200 times sweeter than sucrose, the common sugar. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners such as aspartame or sucralose to enhance the sweetness profile and mask any potential aftertaste. The sweetener is known for its rapid onset of sweetness and clean taste.

Uses in food and beverages

Acesulfame potassium is widely used in a variety of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, chewing gum, baked goods, and dairy products. It is also used in tabletop sweeteners and pharmaceuticals. Its stability under heat makes it a popular choice for products that require cooking or baking.

Safety and regulatory status

Acesulfame potassium has been approved for use in food and beverages by numerous health authorities, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). It is considered safe for consumption by the general population, including individuals with diabetes, as it does not affect blood glucose levels.

Metabolism and excretion

Acesulfame potassium is not metabolized by the body and is excreted unchanged in the urine. This characteristic contributes to its calorie-free status, as it does not provide any energy or affect blood sugar levels.

Related pages

• Artificial sweetener
• Aspartame
• Sucralose
• Saccharin

Gallery

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  Structural formula of acesulfame potassium
• 
  Ball-and-stick model of acesulfame potassium

• 
  Structural formula of Acesulfame potassium
• 
  Ball-and-stick model of Acesulfame potassium