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Chemical Name: Sodium Saccharin
Molecular Formula: C₇H₄NNaO₃S
Molecular Weight: 205.17 g/mol
CAS Number: 128 - 44 - 9
EINECS: 204 - 886 - 1
White crystalline powder or white granular substance, odorless, with a slightly sweet and characteristic taste.
Saccharin sodium is an artificial sweetener with a sweetness approximately 300 - 450 times that of sucrose. This high sweetness level enables the use of very small quantities to achieve the desired sweetening effect, making it an effective means of reducing calorie content in food and beverage products.
Despite its high sweetness, it has a distinct taste profile compared to sugar. Some consumers may detect a slight metallic or bitter aftertaste, especially when used at higher concentrations.
Chemical Stability: It is highly stable chemically. It does not decompose easily under normal processing conditions, such as heating, and is resistant to oxidation and reduction reactions. This stability ensures that its sweetening properties remain intact during food production and storage.
Physical Stability: Physically, saccharin sodium is stable in a wide range of environmental conditions. It is insoluble in non-polar solvents but readily soluble in water and some polar organic solvents. It can maintain its form and sweetening ability over a broad temperature range, from low to relatively high temperatures, which is beneficial for its application in various products.
After extensive research and evaluation, saccharin sodium has been determined to be safe for consumption within the established regulatory limits. Although it was once a subject of controversy due to some early studies suggesting potential health risks, numerous comprehensive scientific studies have since confirmed its safety. Regulatory agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have approved its use in food and beverages according to specific guidelines.
Sweetening Agent: Widely used in a variety of food products to provide sweetness without the calories associated with sugar. Common applications include diet sodas, sugar-free candies, chewing gum, low-calorie jams and jellies, and sugar-free baked goods.
Flavor Enhancement: In addition to sweetening, saccharin sodium can enhance the overall flavor profile of certain foods. It can complement other flavors and improve the taste balance, making the product more appealing to consumers.
Masking Bitter Taste: In the pharmaceutical field, saccharin sodium is often used to mask the bitter taste of certain medications. By adding it to bitter-tasting drugs, the palatability of the medications can be significantly improved, increasing patient compliance.
Sweetening Component: Sometimes added to cosmetics and personal care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash to provide a pleasant sweet taste, enhancing the user experience.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. Keep the packaging intact to prevent moisture absorption and contamination. It is advisable to store it in a well-ventilated area to maintain product quality. Under proper storage conditions, saccharin sodium has a relatively long shelf life.