EFSA: aspartame-acesulfame salt (E 962) is safe, but its specifications need updating
On 10 September 2026 EFSA announced the outcome of its re-evaluation of the sweetener E 962: current uses and use levels raise no safety concerns. The experts nevertheless recommend updating the EU specifications for E 962 and reviewing the arsenic and lead limits in the specifications for aspartame (E 951).
- The salt of aspartame-acesulfame is a sweetener authorised in a variety of sugar-free and energy-reduced foods and beverages; once ingested, it dissociates into aspartame and acesulfame.
- The conclusion rests on the ADI for aspartame of 40 mg/kg body weight per day, now reconfirmed, and on the recently revised ADI for acesulfame K of 15 mg/kg body weight per day; exposure estimates for all age groups remain below these values.
- The Panel recommends updating the EU specifications for E 962 to ensure compliance with the specifications for the aspartame and acesulfame K used in its production and, as with other re-evaluated sweeteners, reviewing the arsenic and lead limits for E 951.
- The opinion was adopted in July 2026 at an open plenary meeting of EFSA’s Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF), with observers present.
Source: EFSA — EFSA concludes the salt of aspartame-acesulfame (E 962) is safe at current exposure levels