Products
Cyclamate is found in beverages, foods, and pharmaceuticals, among other products (E 952). It is also available in the form of small tablets, powder or liquid. Cyclamate was first synthesized in the 1930s in the United States and patented in the 1940s.
Structure and properties
Cyclamate is cyclohexylsulfamic acid or the corresponding sodium or calcium salt:
- Cyclohexylsulfamic acid (acid, C6H13NO3S, Mr = 179.2 g/mol)
- Sodium cyclamate (sodium salt, C6H12NNaO3S, Mr = 201.2 g/mol)
- Calcium cyclamate (calcium salt, C12H24CaN2O6S2, Mr = 396.5 g/mol)
Cyclamates are produced synthetically. They exist as white crystalline powders, are colorless, odorless and highly soluble in water.
Effects
Cyclamate has a sweet taste. It is about 30 times sweeter than table sugar (sucrose) and the taste lasts longer. Cyclamate is calorie-free and gentle on teeth.
Indications for use
As an artificial sweetener and sugar substitute.
Dosage
According to the package insert. Because cyclamate is much sweeter than sugar, a smaller amount is needed for sweetening.
Adverse effects
Cyclamate is considered tolerable by authorities. Like all sweeteners, the safety of cyclamate is controversial.