Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Acesulfame K
E950 | INS 950
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E950
- INS Number
- 950
- CAS Number
- 55589-62-3
- Scientific Name
- Potassium 6-methyl-1,2,3-oxathiazin-4(3H)-one 2,2-dioxide
- Japanese Name
- アセスルファムカリウム
- Also Known As
- Acesulfame potassium, Ace-K, E950
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: varies by food category mg/kg
Maximum levels typically quantum satis or up to 2000 mg/kg
United States
Status: approved | Approved food additive
Approved since 1988
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 指定添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 950
Canada
Status: approved
What is Acesulfame K?
Classification
Function: sweetener
Type: artificial
Source: synthetic
How It's Made
Method: chemical synthesis
Synthesized from acetoacetic acid derivatives through cyclization and reaction with potassium hydroxide.
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Used in toothpaste and mouthwash.
- Pharmaceutical: Used to sweeten pharmaceutical preparations and chewable tablets.
Commonly Found In
Acesulfame K is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
EFSA (EU)
ADI: 9 mg/kg bw/day
Evaluated: 2025
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
ADI in Everyday Terms
For a 60 kg adult, the JECFA ADI of 9 mg/kg bw/day equals approximately 540 mg per day.
This is roughly equivalent to:
- ~13 cans of diet soda (355ml) (typical: ~40 mg per serving)
- ~27 packets of tabletop sweetener (typical: ~20 mg per serving)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acesulfame K (E950)?
Acesulfame K (E950) is a sweetener used in food products. It is artificial and synthetic. A synthetic calorie-free sweetener approximately 200 times sweeter than sucrose.
What is the ADI for Acesulfame K?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Acesulfame K is 0–15 mg/kg bw/day as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Acesulfame K?
Acesulfame K is used in various food categories including Other non-alcoholic beverages, Other confectionery. It is used as a sweetener in these products.
Is Acesulfame K the same as Acesulfame potassium?
Yes, Acesulfame K is also known as Acesulfame potassium, Ace-K, E950. These are different names for the same substance.
Related Additives
Other sweeteners in our database: