Sucralose, also known as Splenda, is a type of sweetener that does not contain calories and is used as an ingredient to replace sugar in reduced-calorie foods and beverages
. It is made from a process that begins with sugar, specifically by replacing three select hydroxyl groups (-OH) on the sugar molecule with three chlorine atoms
. This results in a synthetic organochlorine sweetener that is approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar
. Sucralose is permitted for use in more than 100 countries and is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a general-purpose sweetener
. Some key points about sucralose include:
- Calorie-free : Sucralose is a no-calorie sweetener, which means it does not contribute to weight gain or increase blood sugar levels
- Artificial sweetener : Sucralose is an artificial sweetener, and its structure prevents enzymes in the digestive tract from breaking it down, allowing it to pass through the body unchanged
- Safe : Sucralose is considered safe when consumed in moderation, and it is one of eight low- and no-calorie sweeteners permitted by the U.S. FDA
- Versatility : Sucralose can be used in various food and beverage applications, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake
However, some studies have shown mixed results regarding sucralose's long-term effects on health. While many studies suggest that sucralose has little or no impact on blood sugar and insulin levels, others have linked it to health problems
. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of sucralose consumption on humans.
