Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener commonly used in many sugar-free and diet products, such as soft drinks, chewing gum, and desserts. It is about 200 times sweeter than sugar, allowing manufacturers to use smaller amounts to achieve the desired sweetness. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1981, aspartame is made from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. While it is generally recognized as safe for most people, individuals with a rare genetic disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid it, as they cannot metabolize phenylalanine effectively.