E951
E951 , Aspartame
Why this classification
IARC 2023 classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).
Products containing E951
Common uses in industrial food
Aspartame (E951) is used by food manufacturers for replacing sugar in low-calorie drinks, dairy desserts, chewing gum and tabletop sweeteners. It is most often listed in the ingredient panel as E951, Aspartame, or under one of its trade names. On a NutriDécrypte product page, this additive contributes to the additives axis (20% of the overall A to E grade), and triggers a label warning when its EFSA risk level is medium or high.
If you want to limit your exposure to this additive, the simplest tactic is to read the ingredients list (not just the front-of-pack), and to favour products graded A or B in our independent catalog. Less processed, NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 categories rarely contain it.
Related additives in the same family
Other E-numbers classified as sweetener in the EU food additives registry. Their risk profile and behaviour on a label are often similar.
Frequently asked questions
Is E951 (Aspartame) safe?
EFSA classifies the risk level of E951 as high risk in its latest review. It is also flagged as controversial by independent toxicology reviewers, meaning the scientific consensus is contested. Always read the latest official opinion before drawing conclusions for your own diet, and consult a registered dietitian for medical questions.
What is E951 typically used for?
Food manufacturers use Aspartame primarily for replacing sugar in low-calorie drinks, dairy desserts, chewing gum and tabletop sweeteners. You will most often find it in ultra-processed foods (NOVA group 4) and rarely in unprocessed or minimally processed products (NOVA 1 or 2).
How can I avoid E951 on a label?
Look for the code E951 or its full name Aspartame in the ingredients list, usually printed in small font on the back of the pack. Cooking from raw ingredients, choosing NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 alternatives, and using the NutriDécrypte rankings to filter by grade A or B are the three most reliable strategies.