E955: Sucralose
What is E955?
Sucralose (E955) is a high-intensity sweetener that is roughly 600 times sweeter than sugar. Chemically it is a modified form of sucrose in which three groups are replaced by chlorine atoms, so the body does not use it for energy.
Origin and production
It is manufactured from ordinary sucrose through a multi-step chemical process that selectively chlorinates the sugar molecule.
Why is it used?
Because only tiny amounts are needed, sucralose is used to sweeten diet soft drinks, energy drinks, protein powders, protein bars and table-top sweeteners with few or no calories. It is heat-stable, so it also appears in some baked goods.
Vegan, vegetarian and halal
Sucralose is synthesised from sugar without animal-derived ingredients and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It raises no particular halal or kosher issue.
Safety and regulation
Sucralose is authorised as a sweetener in the EU with maximum levels for specific foods and has been evaluated by EFSA and other international bodies. Its use in foods is restricted for infants and young children, as with other intense sweeteners.
Written by the Foodlas editorial team with AI assistance and checked against EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 and EFSA scientific opinions. Last reviewed: October 14, 2026.
Sources: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 · EFSA — Food additives · Wikidata
Common in
Products containing E955
