The Safety Profile of Aspartame: A Review of Regulatory Standards and Emerging Health Concerns

We reviewed the effects of aspartame, one of the artificial sweeteners widely used in the food industry, on human health. We evaluated the chemical structure, metabolic processes, and potential health effects of aspartame in light of scientific studies. Studies in various health areas, such as cancer risk assessment, effects on the nervous system and cardiovascular system, and its role in metabolic disorders, have led to various debates about the safety of aspartame for human health. While aspartame's low-calorie structure provides an advantage for metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, its potential effects on insulin sensitivity and gut microbiota have led to different conclusions. In light of the adverse effects of the phenylalanine amino acid in the structure of aspartame on brain development, we have tried to emphasize that consumption levels should be more closely monitored in special risk groups such as phenylketonuria (PKU) patients, children, pregnant women, and the elderly. The widespread use of aspartame in the food industry has led to the view that this structure is safe when consumed as a sweetener at acceptable daily intake levels. This review seeks to answer, "Is it a safe additive for human health when individual sensitivities and long-term effects are considered?".