E959: Neohesperidine DC
Main role: sweetening and flavor modification
Also listed as: neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, NHDC
What is E959 (Neohesperidine DC)?
Neohesperidine DC is a high-intensity sweetener derived through processing of a citrus flavonoid. It can also change the balance of sweetness or bitterness in a formulation.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is sweetening and flavor modification. Sweeteners differ in intensity, bulk, and processing behavior. Intense sweeteners often need other ingredients to replace sugar’s volume. A sweetener declaration therefore does not tell you the complete carbohydrate or calorie content.
Food and formulation examples
- Sweetener blends
- Flavored drinks where permitted
- Confectionery
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E959, E 959, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, NHDC. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Neohesperidin dihydrochalcone is different from the unmodified flavonoid neohesperidin. The citrus-related manufacturing origin does not establish a vitamin or antioxidant benefit from the sweetened food.
Is E959 safe?
EFSA’s 2022 review established an intake limit of 20 mg/kg body weight/day for neohesperidine DC. EFSA neohesperidine DC re-evaluation (2022).
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E959 as Neohesperidine DC. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.