Neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (Neo-DHC) is synthesized by chemical treatment of neohesperidin, a bitter component of bitter orange, grapefruit, and other citrus fruit peel and pulp. Although it is derived from a natural source, it has undergone chemical transformations, so it is not a natural product. Neo-DHC does not occur in nature. It sometimes abbreviated to Neohesperidin DC or simply NHDC, is an artificial sweetener derived from citrus.

Neohesperidin dihydrochalcone was discovered during the 1960s as part of a United States Department of Agriculture research program to find methods for minimizing the taste of bitter flavorants in citrus juices. Neohesperidin one such bitter compound. When treated with potassium hydroxide or another strong base, and then catalytically hydrogenated, it becomes NHDC, a compound roughly 1500-1800 times sweeter than sugar at threshold concentrations; around 340 times sweeter than sugar weight-for-weight. Its potency is naturally affected by such factors as the application in which it is used, and the pH of the product.

Safety Regualtiony:

1. GRAS by Expert Panel of FEMA as a flavor ingredient (#3811)

2. EU food additives regulation included (#e959)

3. Australian National Food Authority approved as “Flavoring Substances”

4. European Pharmacopoeia (EP-8) included

5. US Pharmacopoeia Commission Food Chemicals Codex Substance (US-FCC8) included

6. GRAS by the expert Panel of FEMA as a flavor ingredient (#4495)

Certificate of Analysis

Application

As a flavour enhancer, Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone(NHDC) is used in a wide range of products. It is noted particularly for enhancing sensory effects. An example of this is 'creaminess' in dairy foods such as yogurt and ice cream.

Use in naturally bitter products. Pharmaceutical companies are fond of the product as a means of reducing the bitterness of pharmacological drugs in tablet form.Used for livestock feed as a means of reducing feeding time.

Other products NHDC can be found in may include a wide variety of alcoholic beverages (and non-alcoholic), savoury foods, toothpaste, mouthwash and condiments such as ketchup and mayonnaise.

Functions

1. Intense sweetener

2. Flavour enhancer