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Limit or avoid for some people

Aspartame

Aspartame is a low-calorie sweetener used in diet drinks and sugar-free foods.

Aspartamesweetener2 official sourcesReviewed 6/18/2026
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Aspartame ingredient label context
Eatibo

Ingredient label context for Eatibo additive review.

Safety context

Limit or avoid for some people

Aspartame is widely used, but people with phenylketonuria need to avoid phenylalanine sources and follow clinician guidance. Others may review it based on preference and tolerance.

Some people may choose to limit it based on preference, sensitivity, clinician advice or product context.

Label recognition

aspartamee951phenylalanine

Likely food context

Diet sodaSugar-free gumLow-calorie dessertsPowdered drink mixes

Source depth

2

2 official references.

Overview

What Aspartame does in packaged food

Aspartame gives sweetness with very few calories. Eatibo highlights it for users comparing sweeteners, sugar intake and label warnings, especially because some people need specific guidance around phenylalanine.

Why it is used

  • Sweetening diet drinks
  • Sweetening sugar-free foods
  • Reducing sugar content

Technical effect

  • NON-NUTRITIVE SWEETENER

Names to watch for

  • E951
  • Aspartyl phenylalanine methyl ester

How Eatibo reads it

Review the additive inside the full ingredient list

Match label terms and aliases.Check product type and frequency.Compare nearby additives, sweeteners, colors or preservatives.

References

Official and editorial sources

FDAFDA additional information about high-intensity sweetenersFDAFDA Substances Added to Food inventory

FAQ

Quick answers about Aspartame

Why does aspartame matter for phenylketonuria?

Aspartame contains phenylalanine. People with phenylketonuria should follow clinician guidance and label warnings.

Where is aspartame commonly found?

It is commonly found in diet drinks, sugar-free gum and some low-calorie foods.

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Aspartame: Uses, Safety Context, and Label Names | Eatibo