Question

Ortho-sulphobenzimide is used as:

• A. Anti oxidant
• B. Artificial sweetener
• C. Food Preservative
• D. Food supplement

Hint:

Ortho-sulphobenzimide is commonly used as a low-calorie artificial sweetener in food products.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Ortho-sulphobenzimide is primarily used as an artificial sweetener. It is known for its sweetening properties, often used as a sugar substitute in various food and beverage products. It does not serve as an antioxidant, food preservative, or food supplement. Thus, the correct answer is (2) Artificial sweetener.

Answer 2

Step 1: Identifying Ortho-sulphobenzimide
Ortho-sulphobenzimide is an organic compound commonly known by its commercial name, saccharin. It has a sulfonamide group attached to a benzene ring, forming a stable heterocyclic structure. This compound does not contain any calories and has no nutritional value.

Step 2: Use as an Artificial Sweetener
Ortho-sulphobenzimide is widely used as an artificial sweetener due to its intense sweetness—nearly 300 to 500 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). Despite its high sweetness, it is non-caloric because the body does not metabolize it. It passes through the digestive system unchanged.

Step 3: Application and Importance
Saccharin (ortho-sulphobenzimide) is especially useful for people who need to limit their sugar intake, such as diabetics or individuals trying to manage weight. It is commonly used in diet sodas, sugar-free gums, and other low-calorie food products.

Step 4: Conclusion
Therefore, ortho-sulphobenzimide is used as an artificial sweetener due to its non-caloric nature and intense sweetness. It provides sweetness without the added calories of sugar.