Ingredient

Neotame

The Sweet Secret: Neotame

Neotame is a white crystalline powder with a sweet taste. It is heat-stable, making it suitable for use in baked goods and other heated applications. Neotame does not have a bitter aftertaste like some other artificial sweeteners, and it blends well with other ingredients. Due to its intense sweetness, only a small amount of neotame is needed to achieve the desired level of sweetness in recipes or products.

Isolated purified ingredients (including mineral or synthetic)› Major isolated ingredients, additives, flavours, baking and processing aids› Artificial sweeteners (e.g., aspartam, saccharine)

Sweet

Origins and history

Neotame was discovered in 1990 by scientists at the NutraSweet Company. It was approved for use as a food additive by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2002. Neotame is a derivative of aspartame and is chemically similar to it. It is used as a sugar substitute in a wide range of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, desserts, candies, and baked goods.

Nutritional information

Neotame is a non-nutritive sweetener, meaning it provides no calories or nutrients. It is safe for consumption by individuals with diabetes and does not affect blood sugar levels. As a sugar substitute, neotame can help reduce calorie intake and is often used in low-calorie or sugar-free products.

Allergens

Neotame does not contain any known allergens.

How to select

When selecting neotame, look for products that clearly state the presence of neotame as an ingredient. It is commonly found in sugar-free or low-calorie food and beverage products. Check the ingredient list and nutritional information to ensure neotame is included if desired.

Storage recommendations

Neotame should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is best to keep it in its original packaging or an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent moisture absorption. Proper storage will help preserve the quality and sweetness of neotame for an extended period.

How to produce

Neotame is a synthetic sweetener and cannot be produced at home. It is manufactured through a complex chemical process in specialized facilities.

Preparation tips

Neotame can be used as a sugar substitute in a wide range of recipes, including beverages, desserts, sauces, and dressings. It is important to note that neotame is much sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is needed. When using neotame in baking, it is recommended to reduce the overall amount of sweetener used in the recipe. Experiment with different quantities to achieve the desired level of sweetness.

Culinary uses

Neotame is commonly used in the production of sugar-free or low-calorie food and beverage products, such as diet sodas, sugar-free candies, and low-calorie desserts.

Availability

Neotame is widely available in many countries around the world. It can be found in grocery stores, supermarkets, and online retailers that sell food and beverage products.