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There are many different opinions about the dangers of food additives. They have been used in production for a long time. But people have just begun to think about their dangers, carefully studying the composition of each product. But even in this they are trying to mislead the consumer, using various designations "E", which are not clear to everyone. The food additive E950 is in great demand in the industry.
What kind of additive is E950
The first time the substance was obtained back in the 60s of the twentieth century. The additive was produced by a German company. It turns out that this is a synthetic analogue of sugar, which costs hundreds of times cheaper. E950 has another name - acesulfame potassium.
E950 is produced in the form of a crystalline powder. It has a whitish shade and is odorless. Has a sweetish taste. It goes well with water and glycerin, but poorly soluble in alcohol. Shows resistance to hydrolysis.
Food supplement E950 is used only in large industries, less often at home. The substance is supplied in cardboard bags or plastic cans.
What is the food additive E950 made of?
Food additive E950 is a product of artificial origin. Acesulfame potassium crystals are obtained from acetoacetic acid in combination with chlorosulfonyl isocyanate. The chemical reaction takes place under the influence of an inert solvent.
The benefits and harms of acesulfame potassium E950
The effect of acesulfame potassium on the human body has been discussed for a long time. The manufacturers claim the supplement is safe. Doctors also adhere to the same opinion, but warn their patients that any type of sugar substitute in large quantities adversely affects the work of internal organs and systems.
For a long time, experts believed that E950 had carcinogenic properties. But after numerous studies, it turned out that the substance and its decomposition products after heat treatment do not have a negative effect on the body.
First, acesulfame potassium was added to carbonated drinks. This practice has shown good results - consumption volumes have increased several times. Over time, the preservative began to be added not only to food, but also as hygienic means and pharmacological preparations.
Some doctors say that acesulfame potassium is considered an ideal sugar substitute. The food supplement does not affect blood cholesterol, insulin or glucose levels. The preservative is allowed to be used by people with diabetes and overweight.
A safe daily dose is 15 mg per kg of body weight. Nutritionists believe that it is better to consume no more than 9 mg per 1 kg of body weight.
E950 food additive is dangerous or not
If you use the substance in acceptable quantities, then E950 does not pose a danger to the body. The food supplement does not affect the liver and pancreas. It is noteworthy that the sugar substitute has a low calorie content, which means it is perfect for people on a diet.
But if you do not follow the daily dosage, this will lead to problems with the cardiovascular, nervous and digestive systems. This process will be accompanied by:
- pain in the abdomen on the right or left side;
- stool disorder - constipation or diarrhea;
- tachycardia;
- increased heart rate;
- dizziness;
- migraine;
- shortness of breath;
- irritability;
- a sharp change in mood.
It is not recommended to give sweeteners to children under 12 years of age. Abuse of the supplement can lead to hyperactivity disorder and decreased learning ability.
The food additive E950 is recognized as safe, therefore it is approved for use in all countries of the world.
Where and why is the sweetener acesulfame potassium added?
E950 food additive has found wide application in the food industry. Acesulfame potassium is not used in its pure form. It is more economical to add blends in combination with aspartame to products.
Food additive E950 in an amount of up to 2.5 g per 1 kg of food is added to the following products:
- popsicles, ice cream that do not contain cream and milk;
- flavored milk drinks;
- dry breakfasts;
- flavored grains, fruit and egg desserts;
- butter and confectionery products from starch, dried fruits;
- waffles for ice cream;
- chewing gum;
- canned fruits and vegetable purees;
- marmalade and jam;
- canned fish;
- low-calorie beer and alcoholic drinks;
- juices and soda.
The nutritional supplement can be found in pharmaceutical preparations that are produced in syrups and suspensions. The preservative imparts a sweet taste, making the medication easier to take.
A substance of synthetic origin is added to dietary supplements presented in liquid and solid form. Used for the preparation of preparations that help to reduce weight.
The sweetener is used to make toothpastes and mouthwashes. Remarkably, the preservative does not lead to the appearance of caries and the destruction of tooth enamel.
The food additive is used in the production of lipsticks.
Conclusion
Food supplement E950 is considered a good alternative to sugar. The preservative is added to low-calorie foods, so they are included in the diet of those with diabetes. A sweetener is great for people looking to lose weight. Does not affect blood cholesterol, glucose and insulin levels. But you need to use products with a food additive carefully, not exceeding the daily norm. Otherwise, it will lead to adverse consequences.
