May pregnant women consume Acesulfame Potassium?
Yes. The Scientific Committee on Food of the European Union (SCF) published an opinion on the applicability of the ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) for food additives and stated, “the ADI covers adequately exposure during all live stages including special emphasis on reproductive cells, on the fetus and on the young and old organism”. Although calorie-free sweeteners can be safely used by pregnant women, caloric restriction is not generally encouraged during pregnancy due to increased energy needs of pregnant women. However, those women who relegate intake of calories to foods that supply appropriate nutrition can utilize calorie-free sweeteners to satisfy sweet cravings. The FDA approved use of Acesulfame Potassium without restrictions for any segment of the population. Pregnant women, however, should follow the advice of their physician regarding their nutrition, including the use of low-calorie sweeteners.
