What You Need to Know About Sweeteners in Kids’ Foods

With growing concerns around sugar, many parents are turning to no added sugar for kids' options. But often, these products contain artificial sweeteners for kids—and not all are created equal.

Are Sweeteners Safe for Children?

It depends on the type and amount. While some FDA approved sweeteners for children (like stevia or monk fruit) are considered safe in moderation, others can raise questions—especially when consumed daily.

The truth is, we still don’t know the long-term effects of artificial sweeteners on children.

Kids and Sugar Substitutes: What to Watch For

Sugar substitutes for kids show up in foods labeled as “no added sugar” (No sugar doesn’t mean no sweeteners—know the difference, learn more) or “low-calorie.” They may include:

• Aspartame 
• Sucralose
• Stevia
• Maltitol or xylitol (sugar alcohols in kids food)
  

Understanding sweeteners in kids food means checking labels—many of these are hidden under chemical names.

Artificial Sweetener Side Effects in Kids

Even FDA approved sweeteners can cause issues when overused. Common side effects of artificial sweeteners in kids include:

• Headaches
  
• Digestive discomfort
  
• Sugar cravings

Children and Nonnutritive Sweeteners

Children and nonnutritive sweeteners (zero-calorie options) are a tricky mix. While they reduce sugar, they don’t reduce sweetness—and may train kids’ taste buds to expect sugary flavors all the time.

 

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