Equal (sweetener)

Logo-equal

Equal is a brand of artificial sweetener containing aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and other ingredients. It is commonly used as a sugar substitute in various food and beverage products. Equal is marketed as a low-calorie alternative to sugar, making it popular among individuals looking to reduce their caloric intake or manage conditions such as diabetes.

History

Equal was first introduced in 1981 by the G.D. Searle & Company, which was later acquired by Monsanto. The product quickly gained popularity due to its ability to provide sweetness without the calories associated with sugar. Over the years, Equal has expanded its product line to include different formulations and packaging options.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in Equal is aspartame, a low-calorie sweetener that is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. Aspartame is composed of two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid, which are naturally occurring in many protein-containing foods. Equal also contains acesulfame potassium, another artificial sweetener that enhances the sweetness profile.

Uses

Equal is used in a variety of applications, including:

• Beverages: Equal is commonly added to coffee, tea, and soft drinks as a sugar substitute.
• Baking: Equal can be used in baking, although it may not provide the same texture and volume as sugar.
• Cooking: Equal is suitable for use in cooking, particularly in recipes where sugar is used primarily for sweetness rather than texture.

Health Considerations

Equal is considered safe for consumption by the general population, including individuals with diabetes. However, it is important to note that aspartame contains phenylalanine, which must be avoided by individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder.

Regulation

Equal and its ingredients are regulated by various health authorities, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in the European Union. These agencies have established acceptable daily intake levels for aspartame and acesulfame potassium, ensuring their safety when consumed within these limits.

Related Pages

• Aspartame
• Acesulfame potassium
• Artificial sweetener
• Diabetes
• Phenylketonuria
• Food and Drug Administration
• European Food Safety Authority