Aspartame is safe in limited amounts, say experts after cancer warning

Experts have stated that an extensively utilized artificial sweetener, which has been considered a "potential" culprit for cancer, is secure when consumed in small amounts. For instance, it is deemed safe to consume less than nine to 14 containers of carbonated beverages per day.

The artificial sweetener aspartame, which is present in numerous items such as low-calorie sodas, ice cream, and chewing gum, was labeled as "potentially cancer-causing for people" in a publication issued on Thursday by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)—a division of the World Health Organization (WHO).

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has two additional grave classifications: "likely cancer-causing to humans" and "causing cancer in humans".

However, the Food and Agricultural Organisation's Collaborative Panel on Food Additives conducted a supplementary investigation and upheld its recommendation that it is acceptable for an individual to ingest 0-40 milligrams per kilogram of their body weight on a daily basis.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an individual with a weight of 70kg would have to consume over nine to 14 containers of sugar-free carbonated drink on a daily basis in order to surpass the recommended daily limit.

According to Dr. Francesco Branca, who oversees the WHO's division on nutrition and food safety, the evaluations conducted on aspartame have shown that it is generally safe when consumed in common doses. However, there have been reports of possible effects that require further exploration through improved and more comprehensive research studies.

"We're not telling people to completely halt their consumption of aspartame. We're simply recommending a level of moderation."

Both research works mentioned "insufficient evidence" and urged for further investigation on the matter. The World Health Organization affirmed its commitment to closely observe the available data alongside the International Agency for Research on Cancer, while also fostering the participation of independent research organizations.

Having been utilized as a sugar substitute since the 1980s, aspartame provides a flavor that is significantly sweeter than sugar while containing a low amount of calories. Additionally, this substance can be found in various items, including certain yogurts, breakfast cereals, toothpastes, as well as certain medications like cough drops and chewable vitamins.

According to Harriet Burt, an experienced official who deals with policy and international projects at World Action on Salt, Sugar & Health located at Queen Mary University of London, the report highlights the importance of adopting a fresh strategy by food and beverage producers.

She stated that the recent study by the World Health Organization reveals that companies should decrease the overall sugary taste of their products instead of heavily relying on sweeteners. When executed properly, the process of reformulation can gradually eliminate excessive amounts of sugars, salt, and saturated fat from food items in order to enhance their overall healthiness without relying on alternative ingredients like non-sugar sweeteners.

She went on to say: "It is concerning that sugar intake in the UK is still twice as much as advised, mainly because our food industry encourages excessive consumption of overly sweet products that contain high amounts of salt and saturated fat. That is why it is essential to prioritize the reduction of sugar consumption."

According to the latest updates from WHO, it is evident that the UK government must promptly develop an all-encompassing plan to decrease the sweetness of products, not only by reducing sugar content but also by incorporating alternative sweeteners such as aspartame.

According to Dr. Mary Schubauer-Berigan, a member of the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the available evidence does not meet the required standard or provide enough conviction. She suggests that this should serve as an invitation for the research community to delve deeper into the study of this particular sweetener.