Refined intake assessment of seven sweeteners via foods and beverages by the Dutch population using branded data.

Abstract

The intake of seven sweeteners (acesulfame K, aspartame, cyclamates, saccharins, steviol glycosides, sucralose (all chronic intake) and erythritol (acute intake)) via foods and beverages by the Dutch population was assessed in a refined assessment using branded data (product labels, use levels and consumption shares of brands) and scenarios for brand-loyalty. In general, the intake of these sweeteners was below their respective health-based guidance values (HBGVs). Only for toddlers high intakes of acesulfame K, cyclamates and erythritol were around or slightly above the HBGV in the most conservative scenario ('full brand-loyalty, consumers only'). However, intake of all sweeteners was likely overestimated due to conservative assumptions when data on the presence of sweeteners were absent. Improved information, particularly on products with a high contribution to the sweetener intake in toddlers, is needed to further refine the intake assessment. In conclusion, the intake of all sweeteners via foods and beverages is most likely of no concern for the Dutch population.