Aspartame is a type of artificial sweetener that can serve as a sugar substitute. However, its safety has been controversial. Learn more the artificial sweetener - aspartame (E951), from production; properties; uses in soda; safety; side effects; benefits; compare with other sweeteners. aspartame , synthetic organic compound (a dipeptide) of phenylalanine and aspartic acid. It is 150–200 times as sweet as cane sugar and is used as a nonnutritive tabletop sweetener and in low-calorie prepared foods (brand names NutraSweet, Equal) but is not suitable for baking. Discover aspartame ’s use as a sweetener, sugar-free products, health concerns. Learn about its effects on insulin, gut health, and safety.