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Aspartame sweetener C is produced in various types suitable for different applications in the beverage industry. Except for the functional sweeteners, most of these types have a single sweetening agent.
They include:
Single sweetening system
The single sweetening system features only aspartame as the sweetening system. It is used to reinforce the sweetness in some formulations that have lower sweeteners.
Multiple sweetening systems
In multiple sweetening systems, aspartame is used with other sweetening agents commonly sucrose, acesulfame-K, and others. In these systems, aspartame is often employed to enhance flavor and sweetness.
High intensity
High-intensity sweeteners are very concentrated sweeteners requiring only small amounts to achieve desired sweetness levels. Aspartame falls under this category.
Low-calorie sweeteners
There are low-calorie sweeteners such as aspartame that are much sweeter than sugar but with fewer calories. They are often used in formulations for weight control and reduce calorie intake.
Natural-derived sweeteners
Aspartame is synthetically made from natural amino acids' oxidation and hydrolysis. Therefore, it gives it a classified natural origin versus those derived in the laboratory.
The aspartame sweetener has a unique configuration that makes it a functional and effective sweetening agent in various applications. Below are key configuration aspects of aspartame:
Molecular Structure
Aspartame is a methyl ester of the peptide bond formed between aspartic acid and phenylalanine amino acids. Chemically, it is a dipeptide methyl ester with the chemical formula C 14 H 18 N 2 O 5 S. The structure of aspartame is responsible for its sweetness.
Stereochemistry
Aspartame features four chiral centers. These chiral centers are primarily responsible for the sweet taste's specific orientation and shape. In sweeteners, steric configuration is crucial since it determines the interaction between sweeteners and taste receptors on the tongue.
Functional Groups
Aspartame's configuration features several functional groups that include:
-Carboxyl groups (-COOH) on aspartic acid to form the peptide bond by participating in the linking of amino acids.
-Amino groups (-NH2) attached to the carbon chain and the dichiral carbon of phenylalanine, forming the phenyl group.
-Hydroxyl group (-OH) on the phenyl ring, which contributes to aspartame's high solubility in water.
-Methoxy group (-OCH3) contributes to sweetness since it is aspartame's distinguishing feature from aspartic acid.
Solubility
ASP's good solubility in water enhances its applicability in liquid formulations and beverages. It is a common reason for its incorporation into soft drinks. The soluble nature also enables easy incorporation into food products without affecting texture or consistency.
Stability
ASP is stable under normal processing and pH conditions. However, it is less stable under alkaline conditions or high-temperature prolonged exposure. In scenarios such as baking, where high temperatures exist, it is recommended that aspartame should be used with other stabilizers.
Aspartame sweeteners find application in various segments of the beverage industry. Below are popular usages:
Soft Drinks
Most Diet soft drinks use aspartame to provide the desired sweetness without calories. Since aspartame is 200 times sweeter than sugar, it is used in small amounts, making it efficient in controlling calorie levels.
Flavored Water and Electrolyte Drinks
ASP is often used in flavored water and electrolyte products to enhance sweetness without adding calories.
Fruit Juices and Drinks
Juices marketed for diabetics or people who are watching their weight incorporate aspartame to lower the overall caloric content while maintaining sweetness.
Energy and Sports Drinks
Aspartame is commonly used in energy drinks and sports drinks due to its sweetness without calories. It enables athletes and fitness enthusiasts to have flavored hydration without additional sugar.
Liquid Coffee and Tea Beverages
Ready-to-drink (RTD) tea and coffee can also use aspartame to reduce sugar content. It maintains a palatable sweetness for consumers who are after low-calorie products.
Alcoholic Beverages
Some alcoholic drink manufacturers incorporate aspartame, especially in low-calorie formulations, such as light beers and wine spritzers.
Aspartame's sweetness and low caloric content allow manufacturers to provide that sweet taste without the consequences of sugar. That makes it popular in multiple beverage applications.
Aspartame has several benefits in sweetening, food formulation, pharmaceuticals, etc. Below are several key benefits:
Low Caloric Value
Aspartame, compared to sugar, contains fewer calories. Thus, it is very efficient in low-calorie and dietetic products. Aspartame has 4 calories for every gram. However, since it is 200 times sweeter than sugar, only small amounts are used, leading to fewer calories.
Dental Health
Since ADA lacks fermentable carbohydrates, it doesn't encourage harmful bacteria to grow in the mouth. Therefore, it doesn't contribute to tooth decay or cavities. That makes it a good option for maintaining oral health.
Versatility
Aspartame is used in various products, such as soft drinks, chewing gum, yogurt, flavored water, pharmaceutical products, and dietary supplements. It is ideal for sugar-free or reduced sugar versions of food and beverages because of its versatility.
Flavor Profile
Aspartame has a taste profile that is similar to sugar. So, consumers can't tell the difference between aspartame and sugar. The sweetener has a clean sweet taste without any bitter or metallic aftertaste. That makes it especially suitable for enhancing sweetness and flavor in products.
Baking and Cooking
ASP is thermally stable. Therefore, the compound doesn't break down when exposed to heat during the baking and cooking process. Thus, it can be used in baked goods without adversely affecting flavor or texture.
Blood Sugar Management
Aspartame is ideal for diabetics because it doesn't cause a spike in blood sugar levels. People with diabetes can enjoy sweetened products without worrying about increased calorie intake or sugar levels.
Storing aspartame requires specific conditions to ensure it retains its properties and efficacy. Below are key storage and stock replacement:
Storage Conditions
Aspartame should be stored in an ambient temperature range of 15-25 degrees Celsius or 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything above or below affects the stability of aspartame. Besides, it should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated room, with a relative humidity of below 60% to prevent clumping and degradation.
Light Protection
Although it is not sensitive to light like some chemicals, prolonged exposure to light may affect aspartame's purity over time. Therefore, it should be kept in opaque containers to reduce light exposure.
Airtight Containers
Store aspartame in airtight containers to prevent moisture and air from accessing it. Proper sealing prevents oxidation that may degrade its quality.
Stock Rotation
Use the First-in-First-out rule to manage stock. Always ensure older stock products are used before newer ones. That helps prevent the product's expiration while also ensuring consumers get the freshest products.
Labeling
Label products with the date they were received and the expiration date. That ensures the stock is rotated properly without using old stock products.
A1: The beverage industry uses aspartame to provide the desired sweetness without calories, particularly in diet sodas and flavored waters.
A2: Aspartame should be kept at 15 to 25 degrees Celsius in a dry and well-ventilated room with below 60% relative humidity.
A3: Yes, aspartame is safe for diabetics because it doesn't cause blood sugar level spikes. People with diabetes can enjoy sweetened products without worrying about increased calorie intake or sugar levels.
A4: Aspartame has a taste profile that is similar to sugar. Therefore, consumers can't tell the difference between aspartame and sugar. The sweetener has a clean sweet taste without any bitter or metallic aftertaste. That makes it especially suitable for enhancing sweetness and flavor in products.
A5: Aspartame is usually packaged in airtight containers. The packaging helps ensure its stability by protecting it from moisture, heat, and light exposure.
