What is Sucralose?
Updated: Sep 15, 2018
By Kris Solid, RD | Sep 11 2017
Curious about low-calorie sweeteners? You’re not alone. Conflicting information about low-calorie sweeteners seems to be reaching new heights, so we’ve searched high and low for the facts. Here’s the low-down on sucralose.
What is Sucralose and How is it Different Than Sugar?
Sucralose is derived from sugar, but it’s not digested the same way. Most of the sucralose we consume isn’t digested or absorbed by our bodies. On the other hand, sugar is digested and absorbed, which explains why it contains calories.
Sweet as Sugar?
Sucralose is 600 times sweeter than sugar, so you only need a tiny amount to maintain the same level of sweetness as sugar. Sucralose is the primary sweetener found in the brand name Splenda®.
Did You Know?
Sucralose is heat-stable, which means you can incorporate it into your cooking and baking recipes while saving calories. What a treat!
Is it Safe?
Yes, sucralose is safe to consume. It’s one of eight low and no-calorie sweeteners permitted by the FDA for use in the US food supply. All eight have been rigorously tested and reviewed. Leading global health authorities such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), FAO/WHO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives(JECFA), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) and Health Canada have found low and no-calorie sweeteners to be safe. Sucralose has been approved for use by the FDA since 1998.
What’s the Bottom Line on Sucralose?
All foods can have a place in our diets, and low- and no- calorie sweeteners are no different. In addition, sucralose is one of many safe options that can be included in broader weight reduction or weight maintenanceplans. What’s most important is to build a healthy eating style and support it with other healthy habits that are sustainable and tailored to your health and lifestyle needs.