Acesulfame-K is an artificial sweetener, similar to saccharin. It is easily soluble in water, and is very stable in the presence of heat and acid, making it ideal for use in both beverages and baked goods. Furthermore, it is not absorbed by the human body, making it suitable for diabetics. It was discovered in 1967 years by the German Hurst company, was approved for use in Britain in 1983, and in the United States in 1988.