Digestoa
Additive · Sweetener

Neotame (E961)

Neotame (E961) is a sweetener that Digestoa flags as moderate risk. Common concerns include artificial sweetener.

Digestoa riskModerate risk
TypeSweetener
Found indiet drinks, sugar-free gum and sweets, protein products and 'no added sugar' foods
ConcernsArtificial sweetener

What is Neotame?

Neotame (E961) is a sweetener — used to add sweetness without sugar.

Is Neotame bad for you?

Digestoa flags Neotame as moderate risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including artificial sweetener. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain Neotame?

Diet drinks, sugar-free gum and sweets, protein products and 'no added sugar' foods.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains Neotame. But it's a useful flag: when you see E961 on a label it often signals a more processed product, and there's usually a cleaner alternative.

Safer swaps

Look for products sweetened with stevia (E960) or erythritol — or simply less added sweetness.

Frequently asked questions

Is E961 the same as Neotame?
Yes — E961 is the international additive (E-number) code for Neotame.
Is Neotame bad for you?
Digestoa flags Neotame (E961) as moderate risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as artificial sweetener.
What are the side effects of Neotame?
Reported concerns include: Artificial sweetener.
What foods contain Neotame?
Diet drinks, sugar-free gum and sweets, protein products and 'no added sugar' foods.
How can I avoid Neotame?
Check the ingredients list for "Neotame" or "E961", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related sweetener additives

Aspartame (E951)Sucralose (E955)Acesulfame K (E950)Cyclamate (E952)Saccharin (E954)Erythritol (E968)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.