Aspartame

Aspartame (CAS 22839-47-0) is a low-calorie dipeptide sweetener approved as food additive E951 under EU Regulation No 1333/2008. It is also known commercially as Equal and by the abbreviations ASP or H-Asp-Phe-OMe. Its sweetening intensity is approximately 200 times that of sucrose on a weight basis.

In food and beverage formulation, aspartame delivers sweetness at sub-gram inclusion levels, reducing caloric load without altering product texture or water activity. In personal care applications, it functions as a flavorant and humectant in oral care products and leave-on formulations, where it masks bitter actives and supports moisture retention in the product matrix.

Aspartame is supplied as a white powder conforming to FCC, Ph.Eur., and JECFA specifications, with REACH registration applicable for EU import and distribution. It is available in food-grade and cosmetic-grade variants, typically packed in 25 kg fiber drums or multi-layer bags. Phenylalanine labeling obligations apply under EU food law.