Acesulfame with caffeine – what is it?
Acesulfame with caffeine (E950a) is a combination of two ingredients – acesulfame, an artificial sweetener, and caffeine, a natural alkaloid found in coffee, tea and other beverages. Acesulfame is used in the food industry as a sugar substitute, characterized by intense sweetness, but without the calories. Caffeine added to this mixture has a stimulating effect, making E950a a popular ingredient in energy drinks and diet sodas.
Properties of acesulfame with caffeine (E950a)
Acesulfame with caffeine (E950a) has two main properties: it sweetens intensely and has a stimulating effect on the body. Acesulfame is about 200 times sweeter than traditional sugar, so it can be used in minimal amounts to achieve the desired sweetness, making it a popular choice in “sugar-free” beverages and diet products. Caffeine, present in the blend, has stimulating, concentration-enhancing and energy-boosting properties, making the product an ideal choice in energy drinks and those designed to stimulate the body.
Use of acesulfame with caffeine (E950a)
E950a is widely used in the production of energy drinks, carbonated diet drinks and “light” drinks that combine a stimulating effect with a low-calorie profile. Due to its sweetening properties, acesulfame with caffeine is also used in a variety of food products, such as chewing gums, desserts, cookies, and dietary supplements. The use of this mixture in beverages offers the possibility of obtaining a product with a high sweetness and stimulating effect, without adding calories as is the case with traditional sugar.
Health benefits and safety of use
Acesulfame with caffeine (E950a) is recognized as a safe food additive by relevant institutions such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Despite being an artificial sweetener, Acesulfame does not raise blood sugar levels, making it safe for diabetics. Caffeine, in moderate amounts, is also considered safe, but it is important to note that excessive caffeine consumption can lead to side effects such as nervousness, insomnia and elevated blood pressure, especially in people who are sensitive to this ingredient.
Why is E950a valued?
Acesulfame with caffeine (E950a) is valued in the food and beverage industry for its sweetening and stimulating properties. Because it contains no calories, it is an ideal choice in energy and diet drinks designed to satisfy the need for sweetness and stimulate the body at the same time. Its versatility makes it widely used in a variety of products that require a low-calorie but intense sweetening ingredient, combined with a stimulating effect.
