What are the various artificial sweetening agents?

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Various artificial sweeteners, also known as non-nutritive sweeteners or sugar substitutes, are used as sugar alternatives to add sweetness to foods and beverages without the calories associated with sugar. Some of the commonly used artificial sweeteners include:

1. Aspartame: Aspartame is one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners and is commonly found in diet sodas, sugar-free gum, and various low-calorie or sugar-free products. It is about 200 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar) and is broken down by the body into aspartic acid, phenylalanine, and methanol.

2. Saccharin: Saccharin was the first artificial sweetener to be discovered and is approximately 300 to 400 times sweeter than sucrose. It is often used in tabletop sweeteners and various low-calorie foods and beverages.

3. Sucralose: Sucralose is derived from sucrose but undergoes a chemical modification that makes it non-caloric. It is about 600 times sweeter than sugar and is heat-stable, making it suitable for cooking and baking.

4. Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): Acesulfame potassium, often referred to as Ace-K, is a calorie-free sweetener approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is used in a variety of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, desserts, and baked goods.

5. Steviol Glycosides (Stevia): Steviol glycosides are natural sweeteners extracted from the leaves of the stevia plant. They are intensely sweet, ranging from 50 to 400 times sweeter than sugar. Steviol glycosides are commonly used in various food and beverage products marketed as "stevia-sweetened" or "natural" sweeteners.

6. Neotame: Neotame is a newer artificial sweetener that is chemically similar to aspartame but has a longer shelf life and is stable at higher temperatures. It is approximately 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar.

7. Advantame: Advantame is a high-intensity sweetener that is similar to aspartame and neotame. It is approved for use in various food and beverage products but is not as widely used as other artificial sweeteners.

Artificial sweeteners are regulated by food safety authorities in different countries, and their safety has been extensively studied. While they are generally considered safe for consumption within the recommended daily intake levels, some individuals may experience sensitivities or adverse reactions to certain artificial sweeteners. As with any dietary change, it is essential to use artificial sweeteners in moderation and consider individual health needs and preferences.