Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is a normal dietary amino acid, but people with the genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) cannot metabolize it and must restrict intake. FDA requires products containing aspartame (which releases phenylalanine) to bear the warning 'PHENYLKETONURICS: CONTAINS PHENYLALANINE.'
What it is
An essential aromatic amino acid; component of the artificial sweetener aspartame and a building block of dietary protein.
Nutrient/protein component; component of aspartame.
Why it's flagged
- serious health risk for individuals with PKU
What regulators actually say
"Any product subject to this section, which contains aspartame, must bear the statement: 'Phenylketonurics: Contains Phenylalanine.'"
"FDA has ruled that all products containing aspartame must include a warning to phenylketonurics that the sweetener contains phenylalanine."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted; mandatory PKU warning when present via aspartame (21 CFR 172.804, 21 CFR 201.21)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted; mandatory phenylalanine declaration under EU Regulation 1169/2011
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app