Salt of aspartame-acesulfame

The salt of aspartame-acesulfame is a 1:1 molecular complex formed between aspartame (E951) and acesulfame potassium (E950). This combination sweetener was developed to harness the complementary properties of its two components: aspartame contributes a clean, sugar-like sweetness, while acesulfame provides additional sweetness intensity and stability. The compound is approximately 350 times sweeter than sucrose and is used in beverages, confectionery, and dairy products where the synergistic effect of the two sweetener classes improves overall taste quality.

JECFA established an ADI of 15 mg/kg body weight per day for the salt in 2004. The critical consumer consideration for this additive is its aspartame content: aspartame is metabolised to phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder preventing phenylalanine metabolism, cannot safely consume aspartame-containing products and must avoid this additive. EU regulations require all products containing aspartame or its salts to carry the warning "contains a source of phenylalanine."

The salt of aspartame-acesulfame is approved in the EU and other markets with the same labelling obligations as aspartame. Because it releases aspartame upon dissolution, all considerations applicable to aspartame (E951) — including the PKU advisory and the ongoing regulatory monitoring of this substance — apply to E962 equally. Consumers who limit aspartame intake, whether for PKU, personal preference, or general precaution, should treat E962 as an aspartame-containing additive and manage their intake accordingly. As with all intense sweeteners, the very small quantities used mean that total intake from a single product is low relative to the ADI.