EFSA concludes the salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E 962) is safe at current exposure levels

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has completed the re-evaluation of the food additive salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E 962) and concluded that its use does not raise safety concerns. This sweetener is authorized for use in a variety of sugar-free and energy-reduced foods and beverages.

Once ingested, the salt dissociates into its individual components: aspartame and acesulfame. The Panel found no safety concerns associated with the currently reported uses and consumption levels of acesulfame K (E 950), aspartame (E 951), and the salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E 962).

This conclusion is based on the previously established acceptable daily intake (ADI) for aspartame of 40 mg/kg body weight per day, which has been reconfirmed, and the recently revised ADI for acesulfame K of 15 mg/kg body weight per day. Current exposure estimates across all age groups remain below these established ADIs.

Experts recommend updating EU specifications for E 962 to ensure compliance with the specifications for aspartame and acesulfame K used in its production. In line with approaches applied to other re-evaluated sweeteners, they also recommend reviewing the limits for arsenic and lead in the specifications for aspartame (E 951).