Which of the following is not an artificial sweetening agent?

Options

A. Dulcin
B. Alitame
C. Sodium benzoate
D. Aspartame

Answer

To determine which of the following is not an artificial sweetening agent, we need to analyze the options provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Definition**:
- An artificial sweetening agent is a sugar substitute that provides sweetness without the calories associated with sugar. They are often used in food and beverages, especially for people with diabetes or those looking to reduce calorie intake.

2. **Review the Options**:
- We need to identify the substances listed in the options and classify them as either artificial sweeteners or not.

3. **Identify Each Substance**:
- **Dulcine**: This is an artificial sweetening agent that is known to be about 250 times sweeter than sugar. It was discovered in 1883.
- **Alitame**: This is another artificial sweetener made from aspartic acid and phenylalanine, used primarily in beverages.
- **Sodium Benzoate**: This is a food preservative, not a sweetener. It helps prevent the growth of microorganisms in food.
- **Aspartame**: This is a widely used artificial sweetener that is stable at high temperatures, making it suitable for cooking and baking.

4. **Determine the Answer**:
- Among the substances listed, **Sodium Benzoate** is the only one that is not an artificial sweetening agent. It is classified as a food preservative.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Sodium Benzoate**.

### Final Answer:
**Sodium Benzoate is not an artificial sweetening agent.**

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