Physiological Effects of Sucrose Substitutes and Artificial Sweeteners on Growth Pattern and Acid Production of Glucose-Grown Streptococcus mutans Strains in vitro

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Abstract
The synergistic effects of 4 sucrose substitutes, polysorbate and 5 artificial sweeteners were studied in vitro on growth pattern and acid production of 7 glucose-grown S. mutans strains, representing the 5 serological groups after Bratthall. Four distinct growth patterns during glucose fermentation were observed: high rate of growth with low acid production, moderate growth rate with moderate acid production, moderate growth rate with high acid production, and slow rate of growth with moderate acid production. Depending on the strain used, the final OD [optical density] at 546 nm ranged from 0.55-0.99 and the final pH of the medium varied from 4.65-4.15. While added sucrose substitutes, with exceptions, usually enhanced growth rate, most artificial sweeteners suppressed or, at higher concentrations, even inhibited growth of S. mutans; addition of polysorbate to the medium always increased growth rate of S. mutans significantly. The presence of sucrose substitutes during glucose fermentation had no effect on final pH of the medium, but addition of artificial sweeteners, especially sodium saccharin, elevated final pH up to 1.8 units. The observed physiological patterns and differences within the several strains of S. mutans during glucose fermentation in vitro do not necessarily relate to the 5 serological groups of the species. [This has significance for the possible development of non-caries inducing foods utilizing artificial sweetners and polysorbate.].

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