Why does the FDA require a warning label for foods containing the artificial sweetener aspartame?

FDA scientists have reviewed scientific data regarding the safety of aspartame in food and concluded that it is safe for the general population under certain conditions. Labels of aspartame-containing foods and beverages must include a statement that informs individuals with PKU that the product contains phenylalanine.

Why does aspartame contain phenylalanine?

The ingredients of aspartame are aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Both are naturally occurring amino acids. Aspartic acid is produced by your body, and phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that you get from food. When your body processes aspartame, part of it is broken down into methanol.

What is phenylalanine sweetener?

A. Phenylalanine is not a sweetener (it’s actually an amino acid), but it’s found in the artificial sweetener aspartame, aka Equal and Nutrasweet. For most people, phenylalanine is perfectly harmless—in fact, it’s an essential nutrient.

What is bad about artificial sweeteners?

A sugar substitute (artificial sweetener) is a food additive that duplicates the effect of sugar in taste, but usually has less food energy. Besides its benefits, animal studies have convincingly proven that artificial sweeteners cause weight gain, brain tumors, bladder cancer and many other health hazards.

Are artificial sweeteners approved by FDA?

Six high-intensity sweeteners are FDA-approved as food additives in the United States: saccharin, aspartame, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), sucralose, neotame, and advantame.

What is the purpose of phenylalanine?

Your body needs phenylalanine and other amino acids to make proteins, which are found in your brain, blood, muscles, internal organs, and virtually everywhere else in your body. Phenylalanine is also crucial for the production of other molecules, including (2): Tyrosine.

What does the FDA say about artificial sweeteners?

Based on the available scientific evidence, the agency has concluded that the high-intensity sweeteners approved by FDA are safe for the general population under certain conditions of use.

Why is phenylalanine bad?

Phenylalanine can cause intellectual disabilities, brain damage, seizures and other problems in people with PKU . Phenylalanine occurs naturally in many protein-rich foods, such as milk, eggs and meat. Phenylalanine is also sold as a dietary supplement.