aspartame

noun

as·​par·​tame ˈa-spər-ˌtām  ə-ˈspär-ˌtām 

: a crystalline compound C₁₄H₁₈N₂O₅ that is a diamide synthesized from phenylalanine and aspartic acid and that is used as a low-calorie sweetener

Examples of aspartame in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While most are generally recognized as safe, more recent research shows that some sweeteners, like aspartame and sucralose, may have negative health impacts. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 20 June 2024

However, the amount of aspartame in Claritin is considered safe and well below the current acceptable daily intake established by the FDA. —Laura Lu, Ms, Parents, 29 Feb. 2024

PepsiCo, interestingly, removed aspartame from Diet Pepsi in 2015 in favor of a different artificial sweetener. —Barbara Brody, Fortune Well, 28 Oct. 2023

Advertisement This week in 1981, the FDA approved the artificial sweetener aspartame for tabletop use and as an ingredient in candy, breakfast cereals, instant coffee and tea, gelatins, puddings, fillings, dairy-product toppings and chewing gum, among other uses. —Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Oct. 2023

Word History

Etymology

aspartic acid + phenylalanine + methyl + ester

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

aspartame

noun

as·​par·​tame ˈas-pər-ˌtām  ə-ˈspär- 

: a crystalline dipeptide ester C₁₄H₁₈N₂O₅ that is synthesized from the amino acids phenylalanine and aspartic acid and is used as a low-calorie sweetener see nutrasweet