Survey of Intense Sweeteners in Dilutable Drinks Prepared For Young Children (Number 33/03)

• A total of 350 samples of prepared 'squashes' were collected from 10 areas across the UK. The samples were of drinks prepared by carers for consumption by young children aged 1.5 to 4.5 years old. These drinks were collected from day nurseries, nursery schools, playgroups, registered childminders and family homes.
• All drinks were analysed to determine the concentrations of three intense sweeteners - aspartame, acesulfame K and saccharin.
• The dilution factors for the samples were calculated, where possible, from the measured level of intense sweeteners and information from manufacturers on the levels of sweeteners used in the corresponding concentrate. The results showed a wide range of dilution factors, ranging from 1.6 to 35 with a mean of 9.5. Drinks prepared for younger children i.e. 3 years old or less, tended to be more dilute (dilution factor 10.9 plus or minus 0.6) than for those over 3 years old (dilution factor 7.8 plus or minus 0.6).
• The primary aim of the survey was to gather data on dilution factors and the concentration of intense sweeteners in drinks 'as consumed'. The information gained from this survey will be used in conjunction with that from a survey on the volumes and types of drinks consumed by young children (aged 1.5 to 4.5 years old) to estimate the intake of intense sweeteners. This information will allow us to determine whether the Acceptable Daily Intakes (ADIs) for certain sweeteners are being exceeded by children in this age group. Carers are reminded to continue diluting drinks for children more than they would for consumption by adults.