Stability of Aspartame in Fruit Preparations Used in Yogurt

Stability of aspartame (APM) in three fruit preparations stored 6 months at three temperatures was assessed monthly. Remaining aspartame, microbiological quality, objective color and pH were determined; sensory acceptance tests were conducted with the fruit added to a commercial yogurt. pH or microbiological counts did not change during storage. About 60% of original APM remained after 6 months at 21.1°C. APM level was a function of pH, temperature and time. Based on the tests, shelf life estimates for the fruit preparations were 1½ months at 32.2°C, 4–6 months at 21.1°C, and > 6 months at 4.4°C.