Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read

Is Aspartame (E951) vegan?

Also known as: NutraSweet, Equal, Canderel, APM, Aspartyl-phenylalanine-1-methyl ester

E-number: E951

Check the Label

Source can be plant or animal.

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In short

It depends — Aspartame is synthesized from two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine.

01 · The basics

What is Aspartame (E951)?

An artificial, low-calorie sweetener that is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is widely used in diet foods and beverages like sodas and chewing gum.

02 · The source

Where it comes from

Aspartame is synthesized from two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine. While modern production uses bacterial fermentation on plant-based media (making it vegan), there is a remote historical possibility of animal-based media being used, hence the cautious 'Check Label' status.

03 · Alternatives

Best vegan alternatives

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Frequently asked

FAQ

Is aspartame vegan?

In virtually all modern food production, aspartame is vegan. It is synthetically made from amino acids produced via bacterial fermentation on vegan-friendly substrates like molasses. Any risk of animal product involvement is largely historical and practically non-existent today.

Why is there a warning about phenylalanine on Diet Coke and other products with aspartame?

This warning is for individuals with a rare genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU). People with PKU cannot metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, which is a component of aspartame. The warning is a crucial health advisory and is not related to veganism.

Commonly found in

Diet sodasSugar-free gumSugar-free yogurtsLow-calorie dessertsTabletop sweeteners