Ingredient
Saccharin
What is Saccharin?
Saccharin is a synthetic sweetener discovered in 1879. It is produced by oxidizing o-toluenesulfonamide or from phthalic anhydride, leading to a white, crystalline powder that is much sweeter than sugar.
It is used primarily as a non-caloric sugar substitute in various products, like tabletop sweeteners and certain personal care items such as lip balms. Health evidence on saccharin shows it is generally considered safe in human consumption, though past animal studies in the 1970s raised concerns about bladder cancer, leading to mixed perceptions since then. However, those concerns have largely been dismissed by updated research.
When you see saccharin on a label, it signifies a calorie-free sweetness which can be useful for those managing sugar intake, though individual tolerance to its taste may vary.
Commonly found in: tabletop sweeteners, diet sodas, sugar-free gums, dental care products, lip balms, baked goods
What to watch
- Studies in rodents in the 1970s linked saccharin to bladder cancer, but these results are not considered applicable to humans.
Benefits
- Provides sweetness without calories, benefiting calorie-conscious diets.
Saccharin is approved by the FDA as a non-nutritive sweetener and is considered safe for consumption.
While older animal studies suggested cancer risk, subsequent human studies have found no conclusive cancer links.
Saccharin is not derived from animals and is generally accepted by vegan consumers.
Sources: Saccharin
Scout's take
Artificial sweetener used as flavoring. Considered safe topically.
More from Scout's analyses
Artificial sweetener used as flavoring.
from the analysis of Blistex Medicated Lip BalmFound in 2 products
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