Original source 

A 'Pinch' of Mineral Salts Helps the Noncaloric Sweeteners Go Down

Noncaloric sweeteners have become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for ways to reduce their sugar intake. However, some people find that these sweeteners have a bitter aftertaste that can be unpleasant. A new study suggests that adding a small amount of mineral salts to noncaloric sweeteners can help to improve their taste.

Introduction

Noncaloric sweeteners are a popular alternative to sugar for people who want to reduce their calorie intake. However, some people find that these sweeteners have a bitter aftertaste that can be unpleasant. This can make it difficult for them to enjoy the taste of their food and drinks. A new study has found that adding a small amount of mineral salts to noncaloric sweeteners can help to improve their taste.

What are Noncaloric Sweeteners?

Noncaloric sweeteners are substances that are used as a sugar substitute. They provide sweetness without adding calories to food and drinks. Some common noncaloric sweeteners include aspartame, saccharin, and stevia.

The Bitter Aftertaste of Noncaloric Sweeteners

One of the main drawbacks of noncaloric sweeteners is that they can have a bitter aftertaste. This is because they activate bitter taste receptors on the tongue. Some people are more sensitive to this bitter taste than others, which can make it difficult for them to enjoy the taste of their food and drinks.

The Role of Mineral Salts

A new study has found that adding a small amount of mineral salts to noncaloric sweeteners can help to improve their taste. The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and was published in the journal Food Chemistry.

The researchers tested three different mineral salts: calcium chloride, magnesium sulfate, and potassium chloride. They found that all three salts were effective at reducing the bitter aftertaste of noncaloric sweeteners. Calcium chloride was the most effective, followed by magnesium sulfate and potassium chloride.

How Mineral Salts Work

The researchers believe that mineral salts work by blocking the bitter taste receptors on the tongue. This prevents the bitter aftertaste from being perceived. The salts also enhance the sweetness of the noncaloric sweeteners, making them taste more like sugar.

Conclusion

Noncaloric sweeteners are a popular alternative to sugar for people who want to reduce their calorie intake. However, they can have a bitter aftertaste that can be unpleasant. A new study has found that adding a small amount of mineral salts to noncaloric sweeteners can help to improve their taste. This is because the salts block the bitter taste receptors on the tongue and enhance the sweetness of the sweeteners.

FAQs

1. What are noncaloric sweeteners?

Noncaloric sweeteners are substances that are used as a sugar substitute. They provide sweetness without adding calories to food and drinks.

2. Why do noncaloric sweeteners have a bitter aftertaste?

Noncaloric sweeteners have a bitter aftertaste because they activate bitter taste receptors on the tongue.

3. How do mineral salts improve the taste of noncaloric sweeteners?

Mineral salts block the bitter taste receptors on the tongue and enhance the sweetness of noncaloric sweeteners.

4. What are some common noncaloric sweeteners?

Some common noncaloric sweeteners include aspartame, saccharin, and stevia.

5. Are mineral salts safe to consume?

Yes, mineral salts are safe to consume in small amounts. However, it is important not to consume too much of them as they can have negative health effects in large quantities.

This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.

Most frequent words in this abstract:
sweeteners (6), noncaloric (4)