Food additives Europe numbers: E952
Calcium cyclamate is not a widely used medical substance today. Here's the breakdown:
History and Medical Use:
- In the past, calcium cyclamate was an artificial sweetener used as a sugar substitute in some foods and beverages.
- It was seen as a potential benefit for people with diabetes or those looking to control calorie intake.
Safety Concerns and Ban:
- In the 1960s, studies raised concerns that calcium cyclamate might cause cancer in high doses, particularly bladder cancer.
- Following these concerns, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned its use in the United States in 1970 [1].
- Many other countries also banned or restricted its use.
Current Status:
- Calcium cyclamate is not an approved food additive or medical substance in the US.
- There is no current medical use for it.
Alternatives:
- There are many other sugar substitutes available today that are considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA. These include sucralose, aspartame, and stevia.
Important Note:
- If you encounter information about calcium cyclamate, it's important to be aware of its history and the reasons it's not used medically.