How is the use of low-calorie sweeteners regulated?
Regulatory approval differs from one country to another. But the main goal of safety is the same in all countries. To achieve this goal, governments use the safety evaluations of their own scientific advisory bodies or the United Nations’ Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). Approval is the authorization by regulatory authorities for a specific non-calorie or low-calorie sweetener to be used by the consumer as either a table-top sweetener or an ingredient in specific foods at specified maximum amounts. Approval must be obtained before a sweetener can be sold for use in foods or beverages. Approval is granted on the basis of safety assessments and the proof of technological need. It is granted only when regulators are satisfied that the product is safe. Regulatory bodies also establish levels of acceptable daily intake (ADI). Low-calorie sweeteners are among the most thoroughly tested food additives in use today. To be approved, food additives such as low-calorie sw
