Sodium cyclamate, also known as sweetener code 952, is an artificial sweetener that has been used in the food industry for several decades. It is 3050 times sweeter than sucrose, which makes it a popular ingredient in low-calorie and sugar-free products.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of sodium cyclamate, including its history, uses, safety concerns, and more.
History of Sodium Cyclamate
Sodium cyclamate was first discovered in 1937 by a graduate student at the University of Illinois. It was accidentally synthesized when Michael Sveda, a researcher who was working on a new anti-fever medication, noticed that his cigarette tasted sweet after he had spilled some of the chemical on his hand.
The discovery of sodium cyclamate as a sweetener was groundbreaking, as it opened up a new world of low-calorie and sugar-free alternatives to traditional sweeteners. The chemical was approved for use in the United States in 1958 and quickly became popular in the food industry.
Uses of Sodium Cyclamate
Sodium Cyclamate is commonly used in a variety of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, baked goods, desserts, and more. It is often used in combination with other artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, to enhance the sweetness and mask any off-tastes.
One of the benefits of sodium cyclamate is its stability under heating, which makes it ideal for use in baked goods and other products that require high-temperature processing.
Safety Concerns of Sodium Cyclamate
Despite its popularity and widespread use, there have been some safety concerns raised about sodium cyclamate. In the 1960s, a study found that high doses of the sweetener caused bladder cancer in rats.
As a result, the FDA banned the use of sodium cyclamate in the United States in 1969. However, the ban was lifted in 1982, as subsequent studies found that the sweetener did not pose a significant health risk to humans.
Currently, sodium cyclamate is approved for use in over 130 countries, including Europe, Canada, and Australia. Nevertheless, some experts continue to express concerns over its safety, particularly with regard to its potential effects on human hormone levels.
Conclusion
Sodium Cyclamate is an artificial sweetener that has been used in the food industry for several decades. It is commonly used in low-calorie and sugar-free products and is often combined with other sweeteners to mask any off-tastes.
Although the sweetener has been linked to bladder cancer in rats, subsequent studies have found no significant health risks in humans. However, some experts continue to express concerns about its safety, particularly with regard to its potential effects on human hormone levels.
Overall, sodium cyclamate remains a widely used and popular ingredient in the food industry. As with any food additive, it's important to monitor your intake and stay informed about the latest safety research.