Compliance with national standards governing the use of non-nutritive sweeteners in water-based flavoured drinks in Uganda

Abstract

Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) also known as High Intensive Sweeteners are used as sugar substitutes and flavor enhancers in commercially prepared foods and drinks. However, inappropriate use of NNSs can be harmful to human health. This study sought to determine whether water based flavoured drink (WBFs) manufacturers followed national regulations for the safe use of NNSs. A total of 30 WBF samples (2 per company) were collected from 15 companies (LA, LB, LC, LD, LE, MA, MC, MD, MF, MG, SB, SD, SE, SF, and SG brands) from supermarkets in Wakiso and Kampala districts. NNS namely Aspartame, Saccharin and Acesulfame-K in each of the collected samples were detected and quantified by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Aspartame, Acesulfame-K, and saccharin concentrations in WBFs were determined and compared to maximum levels specified in US 45:2019 food additives use standard. Using a check list, the labels from the thirty samples were physically examined for conformity with labeling regulations. A total of 43 WBF manufacturers were also interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires to get an insight into their practices regarding the use of NNS. The results showed that acesulfame-K, saccharin, and aspartame were all variably used; with the latter being the most widely used NNS in Uganda. NNS concentration found in WBFs were in amounts of 0.0 - 82.29 mg/L for Acesulfame-K; 0.0 - 540.32 mg/L for Saccharin; and 6.18 - 1053.65 mg/L for Aspartame. The saccharin concentration levels in 16.6% of the samples were found to be above the maximum permitted levels. All samples selected from large scale companies complied with maximum permitted levels for all the three NNS. Labeling assessment indicated that 87% of the samples contained NNS but were not declared on the product label. The survey findings also revealed that 93% of the WBF manufacturers interviewed, bought their NNS from second or third party retail shops. The most common forms of abuse of NNS were non-declaration and use of more than the maximum allowed amounts. The abuse of NNS was most common among small and medium scale producers of WBF.