Sweeteners
Sweeteners
Sweeteners (/ˈswiːtənər/) are substances used to enhance the taste of foods and drinks by giving them a sweet flavor. They can be derived from various sources and are commonly used in a wide range of food products.
Etymology
The term "sweetener" originates from the Old English word "swete", meaning pleasing to the senses, mind or feelings, and the suffix "-ner", which is used to form agent nouns.
Types of Sweeteners
Sweeteners can be broadly classified into two categories: Natural Sweeteners and Artificial Sweeteners.
Natural Sweeteners
Natural Sweeteners are derived from plants and other natural sources. They include:
- Sugar: Extracted from sugarcane or sugar beet.
- Honey: Produced by bees from the nectar of flowers.
- Maple Syrup: Derived from the sap of maple trees.
- Agave Nectar: Extracted from the agave plant.
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial Sweeteners are chemically synthesized and are often used as a low-calorie alternative to sugar. They include:
- Aspartame: A low-calorie sweetener used in many diet and sugar-free products.
- Sucralose: A zero-calorie sweetener that is approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar.
- Saccharin: The oldest artificial sweetener, discovered in 1879.
- Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): Often used in combination with other sweeteners to enhance sweetness.
Health Effects
The health effects of sweeteners are a topic of ongoing research and debate. While they can help reduce calorie intake and control blood sugar levels, some studies suggest potential risks associated with their consumption. For more information, see Health Effects of Sweeteners.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sweeteners
- Wikipedia's article - Sweeteners
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