Alitame (brand name Aclame) is similar to Aspartame in that it is made from amino acids, namely L-aspartic acid and D-alanine, along with a novel amine. The aspartic acid component of alitame is metabolized normally while the alanine amide passes through the body with minimal metabolic changes. Therefore, it cannot be entirely calorie free as claimed.
Some of its advertized assets include its being stable at elevated temperatures and over a broad pH range, having a clean taste, and having a long shelf life.
Although alitame has petitioned the US since 1986 for use in a broad range of foods and beverages, as of 2005, it still has not been approved for use. It is used in a variety of food and beverage products in Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and the Peoples Republic of China.
References
- Calorie Control fact sheet
This page was updated in December 2005.
