Origin
The sweetener E 959 is derived from the flavonoids Naringin or Neohesperidin found in citrus fruits, specifically from the peel of grapefruits. The end product is a yellowish solid that dissolves well in warm water but poorly in cold water and is also very heat stable. E 959 leaves behind a menthol- to licorice-like aftertaste. The sweetness effect of E 959 only sets in with some delay, for which the sweetening power can be between 200 - 600 times higher than that of normal household sugar depending on the concentration of Neohesperidin DC. It is unusual that the sweetening power decreases as the concentration increases.
Usage
Since E 959 is a calorie-free sweetener, it is primarily used in energy-reduced foods. For the following sugar-free food products, E 959 is permitted: chewing gum, meat products, desserts, confectionery, non-alcoholic beverages, ice cream.
Risks
The sweetener E 959 is considered completely harmless. The allowed fixed daily dose (ADI value) is at 5 mg/kg body weight.