Sodium Saccharin

Sodium saccharin is a synthetic, non-nutritive sweetener approximately 300 to 500 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). It is commonly used in various food and beverage products as a sugar substitute. The "8-12 mesh" designation refers to the particle size of the saccharin crystals, indicating that the crystals pass through a sieve with 8 to 12 openings per inch, resulting in a coarser texture suitable for specific applications.

• Chemical Formula: C₇H₅NO₃S
• CAS Number: 81-07-2
• E Number: E954

Source and Processing

Sodium saccharin is synthesized through chemical processes involving toluene, chlorosulfonic acid, ammonia, and other reagents. The synthesis typically involves sulfonation of toluene to form toluenesulfonic acid, followed by further chemical reactions to produce saccharin. The resulting saccharin is then neutralized with sodium hydroxide to form sodium saccharin. The 8-12 mesh size is achieved by grinding the crystalline saccharin to the desired coarseness.

Uses in Food Products

Sodium saccharin 8-12 mesh is utilized in various food and beverage products, including:

1. Soft Drinks: Diet sodas and sugar-free beverages.
2. Baked Goods: Cakes, cookies, and pastries.
3. Confectioneries: Candies, chewing gums, and mints.
4. Jams and Jellies: Sugar-free spreads.
5. Canned Fruits: Preserved fruits with reduced sugar content.
6. Dessert Toppings and Dressings: Sugar-free syrups and sauces.

Its stability under heat makes it suitable for use in cooking and baking, where it maintains sweetness without degradation.

Benefits

Sodium saccharin offers several health benefits, particularly for individuals managing their calorie intake or blood sugar levels:

1. Calorie Control: Provides sweetness without adding calories, aiding in weight management.
2. Blood Sugar Management: Does not raise blood glucose levels, beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
3. Dental Health: Does not contribute to tooth decay, making it a safe alternative to sugar in oral health.
4. Heat Stability: Maintains sweetness when exposed to heat, suitable for cooking and baking applications.
5. Long Shelf Life: Offers extended storage stability, reducing waste in food products

References:

[1] https://www.livestrong.com/article/460662-what-is-sodium-saccharin/ [Accessed 27, May 2025]

[2] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Saccharin-sodium [Accessed 27, May 2025]

[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saccharin [Accessed 27, May 2025]