Americans are turning to artificial food and beverage sweeteners as a way to cut back on their normally high daily intake of table sugar. Medical studies warn that consuming too much sugar not only adds empty calories to our diets but can also increase the risks of heart disease and certain types of diabetes. Take one look at the foods American consumers are buying today to get a glimpse of just how many contain low-calorie sugar substitutes.

Manufacturers of artificial brand sweeteners have undertaken expensive research and product development so they can make lower-calorie products that are more appealing and safe. Many, like Splenda, are made by reformulating natural table sugar, and are safer and tastier. As you wade through the mountains of information available on artificial sweeteners, consider these helpful tips:

1. Make sure any artificial sweetener you plan to buy carries the government's stamp of approval for public safety.

2. Stick with a reliable brand name to guarantee satisfaction.

3. Contact a reputable artificial sweetener supplier to compare availability and costs.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get the latest on government-approved artificial sugar

Although artificial sweeteners sold in the United States must pass government approval, you'll still want to find out from the experts the differences between the types of artificial sweeteners and which are safer than others.

I recommend: The United States Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has approved certain artificial sweeteners. Its website provides a detailed discussion of each sweetener and includes the dates of approval. Contact the FDA directly for further information about artificial sweetener ingredients. The Mayo Clinic is a non-profit organization that aims to provide accurate medical information to professionals. Contact the Mayo Clinic to learn which sweeteners it recommends food manufacturers use in their products.

Contact artificial food sweetener manufacturers

If you prefer one sweetener over another, it just makes sense to contact that manufacturer for direct orders or information on availability and how to use it in your products.

I recommend: Johnson & Johnson manufactures Splenda, an extremely popular sweetener for foods and beverages that has stormed into the market in the past decade. The company responds to inquiries from professionals on how one can use Splenda in beverages and in restaurant cooking and baking. Another market leader is Merisant, which manufactures the popular sweeteners, Equal and Sweet Simplicity. Merisant sells its products globally.

Deal with suppliers of artificial sweeteners for greater availability and convenience

Suppliers often carry more than one brand and offer special prices.

I recommend: Instawares carries top brands of artificial food and artificial beverage sweeteners. It ships from warehouses in nine major cities throughout the United States. Its website allows you to request a quote on any order. Luzo Maxi-Market is an artificial sweetener distributor in Massachusetts that does not require membership. You can find restaurant ready recipes using artificial sweeteners on its website.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If your restaurant or diner does baking on premises, consider offering baked goods made with artificial sweeteners. Just make sure that you use the right one, since not every sweetener can substitute for table sugar in baking recipes.