Sucralose Facts

Sucralose is a derivative of cane sugar. It is a no-calorie sweetener and is marketed under the brand name, Splenda. Although it is derived from sugar, its chemical structure is different from sugar and is technically considered a chemical. Sucralose can be used in place of traditional sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin and cyclamates

History

• According to Penn State University, Tate & Lyle Company first investigated the use of sucrose as a chemical intermediate in 1960s. However, it was not until 1989 (some reports cite 1976) that a collaborative study at the University of London resulted in the discovery of sucralose.

Features

• Sucralose is 600 times sweeter than sugar. It is made from sucrose by substituting three alcohol groups with three chorine groups. It has no calories and therefore will not metabolize in the body to produce energy.

Uses

• In 1988, the FDA approved the use of sucralose as a table-top sweetener. It can now be found in more than 4,500 foods and beverages. Because sucralose is the most heat stable sweetener available, it can be use as a sugar substitute in baking and cooking.