Systematic Investigation of Migration and Decay Characteristics of Sweeteners in Cigarette Tipping Paper: Kinetics, Mechanisms, and Stability Implications

The stability of sweeteners in cigarette tipping paper is critical for cigarette product quality but remains under-explored. This study systematically investigated the decay behaviors of five synthetic sweeteners (acesulfame, sodium saccharin, sucralose, neotame, and aspartame) from three classes (sulfonamides, dipeptides, and sucrose derivatives). Using a validated HPLC-MS/MS method, we quantified the effects of time, temperature, and composition (mono-/hybrid-component). At room temperature, mono-component sweeteners exhibited rapid decay within 30 days, followed by a plateau. Decay rates initially followed the order: sulfonamides > sucralose > dipeptides, correlating with their initial transfer rates. Elevated temperature accelerated decay for all sweeteners, with sucralose and aspartame showing the highest sensitivity. Notably, hybrid-sweetener formulations demonstrated superior stability in maintaining sweetness perception. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, four kinetic models were employed to fit the experimental data, providing insights into the decay processes. Based on these systematic findings, practical guidelines for the rational selection and shelf-life prediction of sweeteners in tipping paper were established. This work provides fundamental chemical behavior data and generalized guidance for ensuring the long-term stability of sweetened tobacco products.