The Aspartame Change in Lucozade
For years, many Lucozade products did contain aspartame, an artificial sweetener used to reduce the overall sugar content. The most significant shift occurred in 2017 when Lucozade's owner, Suntory, drastically cut the sugar content in response to the UK's impending sugar tax. At that time, many flavours were reformulated to include a mix of glucose syrup, aspartame, and acesulfame K. However, the story doesn't end there. Consumer feedback following the 2017 reformulation led to a further recipe change in 2023.
The 2023 Recipe Update
In August 2023, Lucozade announced a major change to the flavour profiles of its two most popular variants: Lucozade Energy Original and Lucozade Energy Orange. This update wasn't just about taste; it also involved altering the sweeteners used. Specifically, aspartame was removed and replaced with a different blend, leaving sucralose and acesulfame K as the primary non-sugar sweeteners. This means that new stock of Lucozade Energy Original and Orange purchased since late 2023 should no longer list aspartame on the ingredients label.
How to Check Your Bottle
Because both old and new stock may have been on shelves together for a period after the rollout, it's crucial to read the label of your specific bottle.
Things to look for on the label:
- Original Flavour: The new recipe, post-August 2023, will list 'Sweeteners (Sucralose, Acesulfame K)'. Older stock might still show 'Sweeteners (Aspartame, Acesulfame K)'.
- Orange Flavour: Similarly, post-2023 versions should show 'Sweeteners (Sucralose, Acesulfame K)', replacing the older aspartame blend.
- Zero Sugar Products: The situation for zero-sugar versions is more complex. While some zero-sugar products might be aspartame-free, others still use a blend including aspartame, as highlighted by some older ingredient lists. Again, the label is the definitive guide.
Lucozade vs. Lucozade Zero Sweeteners
The sweetener profile of Lucozade products can vary significantly between the classic energy drink and the 'Zero' versions. For instance, Lucozade Energy Original now uses glucose syrup along with sucralose and acesulfame K. In contrast, some Lucozade Zero products, like the Uplift range, may still explicitly list aspartame as an ingredient. This distinction is critical for consumers who are actively trying to avoid aspartame.
The Debate Around Artificial Sweeteners
The choice of sweeteners is often a point of contention for consumers. Aspartame, while approved by major food safety authorities like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for general consumption within recommended limits, has faced public scrutiny. Concerns have been raised about potential side effects, with some studies linking it to mood disorders, while regulatory bodies remain firm on its safety for most people. This debate likely influenced Lucozade's decision to shift its sweetener profile. The company's new blend, relying on sucralose, appeals to consumers who prefer to avoid aspartame, even if the overall safety data is robust.
Sweeteners in Lucozade: A Comparison
| Sweetener | Present in Classic Lucozade (pre-2017) | Present in Classic Lucozade (2017-2023) | Present in Classic Lucozade (post-Aug 2023) | Present in some Lucozade Zero variants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glucose Syrup | Yes | Yes (reduced) | Yes (reduced) | No |
| Aspartame | No | Yes | No | Yes (check label) |
| Sucralose | No | No | Yes | Yes (check label) |
| Acesulfame K | No | Yes | Yes | Yes (check label) |
Conclusion
In summary, the question 'Is there aspartame in Lucozade?' has evolved over time due to recipe changes prompted by regulatory shifts and consumer feedback. The most recent and significant update in August 2023 saw aspartame removed from the main Lucozade Energy Original and Orange flavours, replaced by sucralose and acesulfame K. However, some other products, particularly in the Zero range, may still contain aspartame. The best practice is always to consult the ingredients label on the specific bottle you intend to buy to confirm its exact contents. The change reflects the ongoing industry trend of adapting to market demands while navigating the complex landscape of artificial sweetener perceptions.
