The Dual Sweetener System: Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium
The secret behind Clear American's sweet flavor without the added calories is its use of a dual artificial sweetener system. The two primary artificial sweeteners on the ingredient list are aspartame and acesulfame potassium, often referred to as Ace-K. This combination is not unique to Clear American; many sugar-free beverages and foods use this blend. The two sweeteners work together to create a more balanced and complete sweetness profile than either could achieve on its own. Aspartame provides an initial burst of sweetness, while Acesulfame Potassium helps to enhance and prolong the sweet taste, effectively masking any potential aftertaste.
What is Aspartame?
Aspartame is an artificial, low-calorie sweetener that is about 200 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). It is a methyl ester of a dipeptide, meaning it's composed of two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Because it contains phenylalanine, products with aspartame carry a warning for individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU), who cannot properly metabolize the amino acid.
Aspartame's safety has been extensively studied and debated over the years. Major regulatory bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have deemed it safe for consumption under typical usage levels. However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified it as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2B), based on limited evidence.
What is Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)?
Acesulfame potassium, or Ace-K, is another calorie-free artificial sweetener used in Clear American. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar and is often combined with other sweeteners, like aspartame, to create a more sugar-like flavor. A key benefit of Ace-K is its stability under high temperatures, which makes it suitable for use in a wide range of products. In terms of safety, regulatory agencies like the FDA have also approved Ace-K for general use.
The Full Ingredient List
To provide a full picture of what's in Clear American, a typical ingredients list includes:
- Filtered Carbonated Water
- Citric Acid
- Natural Flavor
- Potassium Citrate
- Aspartame
- Potassium Benzoate (a preservative)
- Acesulfame Potassium
Comparing Clear American to Other Sparkling Water Brands
When choosing a sparkling water, it's helpful to compare sweetener options. This table outlines the key differences between Clear American and other popular types of sparkling water:
| Feature | Clear American (Walmart Brand) | Purely Essenced Sparkling Water (e.g., LaCroix) | Stevia-Sweetened Sparkling Water (e.g., Zevia) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | Aspartame & Acesulfame Potassium | None (flavor from natural fruit essence) | Stevia leaf extract |
| Calories & Sugar | Zero calories, zero sugar | Zero calories, zero sugar | Zero calories, zero sugar |
| Taste Profile | Noticeably sweet, like a diet soda | Unsweetened, subtle hint of fruit | Plant-based sweetness, some may detect a mild aftertaste |
| Primary Appeal | Affordable diet soda alternative with a sweet flavor | Purely effervescent water with a light flavor | Naturally sweetened alternative to sugar |
| Considerations | Contains artificial sweeteners (aspartame, Ace-K); Phenylketonurics warning | May not be sweet enough for those used to soda | Taste varies by brand; may not be for everyone |
Health Considerations and Alternatives
Because Clear American relies on artificial sweeteners, it's important to be mindful of its consumption, especially if you have specific health concerns. The product is:
- Sugar-free and low-calorie: This makes it a popular choice for those managing weight or blood sugar levels.
- Contains Aspartame: Individuals with PKU must avoid this product. Others may choose to limit their intake based on personal comfort with artificial sweeteners.
- Artificially Flavored: For those who prefer all-natural products, there are alternatives available that use fruit essences or natural sweeteners.
For an alternative that provides a similar sweetened experience without aspartame, look for sparkling waters that use sucralose or natural sweeteners like stevia. If a completely unsweetened beverage is preferred, brands like LaCroix or Bubly, which use only natural fruit essence for flavor, are excellent choices. You can find more information about artificial sweeteners on the FDA's website at https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/additional-information-about-high-intensity-sweeteners-food.
Conclusion
To answer the question, what is the sweetener in Clear American, the answer is a combination of aspartame and acesulfame potassium. This dual-sweetener system provides a sweet, flavorful experience without the calories or sugar of a traditional soda, making it a popular choice for many consumers. However, individuals with phenylketonuria need to avoid it due to the aspartame content. For those looking to reduce their sugar intake, Clear American is a readily available, budget-friendly option, but it is important to be aware of the artificial nature of its sweetening agents. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal health goals, taste preferences, and comfort with artificial ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Clear American keto-friendly? A: Yes, because Clear American contains zero net carbs and zero sugar, it is considered a keto-friendly beverage.
Q: Does Clear American contain caffeine? A: No, most flavors of Clear American sparkling water are caffeine-free.
Q: What is phenylalanine and why is it listed on Clear American? A: Phenylalanine is one of the amino acids in aspartame. The warning is for individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU), who cannot properly metabolize it.
Q: Can I drink Clear American while pregnant? A: While most artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, are considered safe in moderation, it's best to consult a doctor or registered dietitian for personalized advice during pregnancy.
Q: Is Clear American a Walmart brand? A: Yes, Clear American is a store brand product exclusively sold at Walmart.
Q: Does Clear American have an aftertaste? A: Some people might detect a slight aftertaste from the artificial sweeteners, while others do not. This is often a matter of personal sensitivity.
Q: Are there Clear American products without artificial sweeteners? A: The flavored versions of Clear American use artificial sweeteners. For an unsweetened option, you would need to look for a different brand that uses only natural essences, such as LaCroix or Bubly.
