Saccharin's Storied Past
First discovered in 1879, saccharin holds the title as the oldest artificial sweetener. Its rise to popularity was initially spurred by sugar shortages during World War I and later during the calorie-conscious dieting trends of the 1960s and 70s. For decades, it was a kitchen and restaurant staple, especially recognizable in the iconic pink packets of Sweet'N Low. However, its story took a controversial turn in the 1970s when animal studies suggested a link between high doses of saccharin and bladder cancer in rats. This led to a mandatory warning label on saccharin products in the United States, casting a shadow over its safety. Public outcry prevented an outright ban, and scientific investigation continued.
The Safety Verdict and Market Position
Through subsequent and more thorough research, scientists discovered that the mechanism causing bladder tumors in male rats was unique to that species and did not apply to humans. As a result, the National Toxicology Program removed saccharin from its list of potential carcinogens in 2000, and the FDA removed the mandatory warning label in 2001. With its safety reaffirmed for human consumption at typical intake levels, saccharin remains a viable and safe sugar alternative approved for use in over 100 countries.
Despite the safety concerns being resolved, saccharin’s market prominence has shifted. With the introduction of newer sweeteners like aspartame (Equal) and sucralose (Splenda), many manufacturers moved away from saccharin. While it is no longer the undisputed king of artificial sweeteners, it still holds a place in the market and in the hearts of loyal consumers who prefer its taste profile and lower cost.
Where to Find and Buy Saccharin Today
Finding saccharin is still quite easy, though it may not be as ubiquitous as it once was. You can find it in several different forms and locations.
Tabletop Sweeteners
- Grocery Stores: Check the baking and sugar substitute aisle of most major supermarkets. You’ll likely find Sweet'N Low, the most recognizable saccharin brand in its signature pink packets.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon carry a variety of saccharin products, including Sweet'N Low and Necta Sweet tablets, in both small and bulk quantities.
- Club Stores: Warehouse retailers often sell larger boxes of tabletop sweetener packets, including saccharin-based options, for a more economical price.
Processed Foods and Drinks
Many products still contain saccharin, though it is often blended with other sweeteners to mask its slight aftertaste. Keep an eye on ingredient labels for these items:
- Diet Soft Drinks: Although many have switched to other sweeteners, some diet sodas may still contain saccharin.
- Baked Goods: Certain cookies, cakes, and other baked goods formulated for low-sugar diets include saccharin.
- Canned Fruits and Jellies: Many sugar-free canned fruits and desserts use saccharin for sweetness.
- Chewing Gum: Sugar-free gums and candies are another common place to find saccharin.
Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics
Saccharin's uses extend beyond food and beverages. It is a common excipient (inactive ingredient) used in:
- Medicines: It is often used to mask the unpleasant taste of chewable tablets and liquid medications.
- Oral Hygiene Products: Toothpastes and mouthwashes sometimes include saccharin to provide a sweet flavor.
Saccharin vs. Other Popular Sweeteners
| Feature | Saccharin | Aspartame | Sucralose | Steviol Glycosides (Stevia) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetness | 200-700x sweeter than sugar | ~200x sweeter than sugar | ~600x sweeter than sugar | ~200-400x sweeter than sugar |
| Calories | Zero | Contains calories, but amount is negligible due to potency | Zero | Zero |
| Aftertaste | Distinct, can be metallic or bitter to some | No aftertaste, clean flavor | No aftertaste, clean flavor | Licorice-like, noticeable by some |
| Heat Stability | Very stable, suitable for baking | Not heat stable; loses sweetness when heated | Heat stable, good for baking | Heat stable |
| Regulatory Status | FDA-approved | FDA-approved | FDA-approved | FDA-approved for high-purity forms |
| Common Brands | Sweet'N Low, Necta Sweet | Equal, NutraSweet | Splenda | Truvia, PureVia |
The Lingering Aftertaste
Despite the official all-clear from regulatory bodies, some lingering skepticism and negative perception still surround saccharin. This is primarily due to its controversial past, which has stuck in the public memory. Additionally, its characteristic bitter or metallic aftertaste is a major reason many consumers have moved on to newer, better-tasting artificial sweeteners. For those who are sensitive to its taste, it can be an off-putting experience. However, for those who grew up with it or who are not bothered by the aftertaste, it remains a familiar and preferred option.
Conclusion
Yes, you can still get saccharin, and its continued presence in the market is a testament to its long history and eventual clearance from major health concerns. While it faces stiff competition from newer, less bitter alternatives like sucralose and stevia, saccharin maintains a dedicated user base and can be found under brand names such as Sweet'N Low in most grocery stores and online. For those seeking a tried-and-true, zero-calorie sugar substitute, saccharin is readily available and safe for consumption within recommended limits.
Visit the FDA's page on sweeteners for more information on saccharin's regulatory status.
