As sales of “zero sugar” foods continue to grow, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has proposed new safety rules to clearly define how sweeteners can be used in food products, Chosun Biz reported.
On the 26th, the ministry issued an administrative notice seeking comments on partial amendments to the “Standards and Specifications for Food Additives.” The proposed changes specify the types of foods and maximum permitted levels for six sweeteners: sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, steviol glycosides, enzyme-treated stevia and erythritol.
According to ministry data, domestic production and imports of sweeteners rose nearly fourfold, from 3,364 tonnes in 2020 to 13,276 tonnes in 2024. While current national intake remains within safe limits—ranging from 0.49% to 12.71% of the acceptable daily intake (ADI)—officials noted that overall consumption is expected to rise as use expands.
The ministry said the move is aimed at improving oversight as sweetener use spreads beyond beverages into snacks, dairy products and protein-based foods. It added that clearer standards would help prevent excessive use during manufacturing.
The six sweeteners differ in their characteristics. Sucralose, acesulfame potassium and aspartame are high-intensity sweeteners that provide strong sweetness in very small amounts. Steviol glycosides and enzyme-treated stevia are derived from plants, while erythritol is a sugar alcohol that requires larger quantities to achieve sweetness.
In the food industry, manufacturers often blend two or more sweeteners to better replicate the taste and texture of sugar. While not all products contain all six ingredients, most zero-sugar items use at least one of them.
Industry officials said companies may face short-term costs if usage standards change, as they could be required to adjust product formulas and retest production processes. Sweeteners influence not only sweetness but also flavour balance and texture.
However, some expect the new rules to bring long-term benefits by reducing safety concerns and improving market confidence.
The ministry said it has aligned the revised standards with those of the European Union and the Codex Alimentarius Commission to reduce differences in specifications and bring domestic regulations closer to global norms.
A ministry official said the goal is to prevent excessive use of sweeteners and ensure safe consumption, while also supporting the development of a wider range of food products.
