Does Irn Bru Sugar Free Use Aspartame? The Definitive Answer
For anyone monitoring their sugar intake or with specific health concerns, understanding the ingredients in a favorite beverage is crucial. The short and direct answer to whether Diet Irn Bru contains aspartame is yes, it does. Following the UK government's introduction of the Soft Drinks Industry Levy (sugar tax) in 2018, manufacturer A.G. Barr reformulated its core products to fall below the taxable sugar threshold. For the sugar-free version, this meant a reliance on a blend of artificial sweeteners to maintain its distinctive flavor profile.
The Sweeteners Inside Your Irn Bru Sugar Free
The ingredient list for IRN-BRU Sugar Free clearly states the use of a combination of sweeteners to replace sugar. This is a common practice in the food and beverage industry, as blending sweeteners can create a more balanced and palatable taste, avoiding the sometimes-unpleasant aftertaste associated with a single artificial sweetener.
- Aspartame (E951): This is one of the world's most widely used artificial sweeteners. It is known for its intense sweetness and is also a source of phenylalanine, a fact that requires a mandatory warning on the label for individuals with the genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU).
- Acesulfame K (E950): Often used in conjunction with aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K) is another calorie-free sweetener. The synergistic effect of combining Acesulfame K and aspartame often results in a more sugar-like flavor profile.
The Reason for the Recipe Change: The UK Sugar Tax
The 2018 recipe change was a significant moment for Irn Bru fans. A.G. Barr's decision to lower the sugar content in its products was a direct response to the Soft Drinks Industry Levy. This tax was designed to encourage manufacturers to reduce sugar levels in sugary drinks to combat rising obesity rates. By reformulating, A.G. Barr was able to make its products exempt from the tax. The change, however, was met with mixed reactions, with many loyal fans voicing their disappointment over the alteration to the taste of their beloved drink. The company asserted that "most people will not be able to tell the difference in flavor between the old and new formulas," though online campaigns and stockpiling of the older, sugary version proved otherwise.
Understanding the Phenylalanine Warning
Because aspartame is composed of two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine, products containing it must carry a warning. For the vast majority of the population, this is not a concern. However, for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), the body cannot properly metabolize phenylalanine, and excessive amounts can lead to serious health issues. This is why Irn Bru Sugar Free bottles and cans include the specific advisory: "Contains a source of Phenylalanine".
Comparison Table: Original vs. Sugar Free Irn Bru Ingredients
| Ingredient Category | Original Irn Bru (Pre-2018) | IRN-BRU Sugar Free |
|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Sugar, Aspartame, Acesulfame K | Acesulfame K, Aspartame |
| Primary Sweetener | Sugar | Aspartame |
| Energy Content | Higher (from sugar) | Very Low (from sweeteners) |
| Calories | Significant | Zero (or close to) |
| Colours | Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R | Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R |
| Preservative | E211 (Sodium Benzoate) | E211 (Sodium Benzoate) |
| Flavorings | Proprietary blend (incl. caffeine, ammonium ferric citrate & quinine) | Proprietary blend (incl. caffeine, ammonium ferric citrate & quinine) |
| Warning | May contain phenylalanine warning if aspartame was present alongside sugar | Contains a source of Phenylalanine |
Are the Sweeteners in Diet Irn Bru Safe?
The safety of artificial sweeteners like aspartame and Acesulfame K has been a long-standing subject of public debate and scientific research. Regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have conducted extensive reviews and continue to monitor these ingredients. While classifications like the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) labeling aspartame as a Group 2B carcinogen (possibly carcinogenic to humans) can cause public concern, the FDA maintains its safety under current usage levels, noting shortcomings in some studies. These sweeteners are approved for use in the UK and many other countries within specified acceptable daily intake levels, but the debate underscores the importance of informed consumer choice.
Conclusion
Yes, Diet Irn Bru, officially known as IRN-BRU Sugar Free, contains aspartame, alongside Acesulfame K, as part of its sugar-free formulation. This change was initiated in 2018 to comply with the UK's sugar tax regulations. For the majority of consumers, these ingredients are considered safe when consumed within regulatory guidelines. However, it is essential for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) to be aware of the phenylalanine content derived from aspartame, as mandated by the on-pack warning. While the recipe adjustment was a divisive topic among fans, the sugar-free version remains a popular low-calorie alternative to the original. For the most current information, always check the official IRN-BRU website for product details and ingredient listings.
For more details on the ingredients in Irn Bru products, you can visit the official IRN-BRU website at https://irn-bru.co.uk/products/irn-bru-sugar-free.
