The Lab
Specimen No. 0195
AvoidSyntheticfood harmful sweeteners

Neotame

E961

Master DB rating: Avoid. Listed for: Processed foods, beverages

medium confidence
Researched July 7, 2026

Concerns

  • Undergoes de-esterification that releases methanol, which is further metabolized to formaldehyde — the same pathway of concern historically raised for aspartame
  • Both FDA's original review and EFSA's 2025 re-evaluation concluded that resulting methanol/formaldehyde exposure at approved intake levels (ADI 10 mg/kg bw/day) is not a safety concern, based on 52-week chronic and 104-week carcinogenicity studies in rats

Regulatory flags

  • IARC Class: NL
  • EDC Status: None
  • Regulatory: US: FDA approved 2002; EFSA re-evaluated 2025, no safety concern found; EU: permitted
  • Evidence Grade: A

Commonly found in

Processed foods, beverages

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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LabelCleared verdict badge: Neotame — Avoid
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