Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener commonly used in various food and beverage products. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still enjoying sweet flavors. This sweetener is made from two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine, and is often found in diet sodas, sugar-free gum, and other low-calorie foods. While it is generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies, some individuals, particularly those with phenylketonuria (PKU), must avoid it due to their inability to metabolize phenylalanine properly.