What products contain aspartame? Here's a list of popular foods, beverages with the sweetener.

29 Jun 2023

June 29, 2023 / 1:02 PM / Financial Watch

With the increasing number of Americans avoiding sugar, synthetic sweeteners have taken the place to cater to people's preferences in various recipes. Aspartame, specifically, is incorporated into over 6,000 products.

However, doubts are being raised regarding the safety of aspartame following a report by Reuters, stating that the cancer research division of the World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing to announce that the synthetic sweetener may have the potential to cause cancer in humans.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) under WHO has examined the potential cancer-causing impact of aspartame and will announce its results on July 14, according to a spokesperson from the institution who informed CBS MoneyWatch. However, no official confirmation was given regarding the Reuters report on the IARC's determination regarding the safety of aspartame.

The IARC investigates the capacity of substances to cause cancer, whereas another WHO committee supervises guidance concerning the amount of a product that is deemed safe for human consumption.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given its stamp of approval to aspartame for its inclusion in food items, stating that it is "harmless for the public at large." Nevertheless, concerns surrounding the safety of aspartame have persisted. A recent study published in the reputable journal "Nutrients" in 2021 highlights the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of aspartame usage.

Aspartame is a substance known as a methyl ester. This man-made sugar substitute, which is 200 times stronger than regular sugar, first emerged in 1981 as a low-calorie sweetener. It is sold under various brand names such as Nutrasweet, Equal, and Sugar Twin. According to information from the National Library of Medicine, aspartame has since become a crucial component in numerous food and drink products consumed in North America, Asia, and Europe.

According to numerous research studies, aspartame has no effect on blood sugar or insulin levels. This quality has made it a favored alternative to sugar in diabetic-friendly food products. Additionally, aspartame has been utilized by manufacturers in low-sugar and sugar-free snacks, condiments, and beverages. This decision was influenced by studies that have suggested a connection between excessive sugar intake and various types of cancer.

Aspartame-rich Foods For Diet

Below are some widely consumed edibles and drinks that incorporate aspartame:

Both Coca-Cola, the company behind Diet Coke, and other makers of products that include aspartame did not respond promptly to requests for comments.

Although many studies have deemed aspartame as harmless when consumed in moderation, certain research has associated the intake of aspartame with the development of cancer. A study conducted in France observed over 100,000 adults and found that those who consumed higher quantities of artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame, experienced a slightly increased likelihood of developing cancer.

It has been suggested by certain studies that consumption of aspartame could potentially lead to headaches, seizures, and depressive symptoms.

The FDA and the American Cancer Society, nonetheless, continue to consider aspartame as a secure option for people to consume.

Based on the FDA's approved daily threshold for synthetic sugar substitutes, a person weighing 150 pounds would need to consume over 18 servings of zero-sugar carbonated drinks daily in order to face serious detrimental effects on their health caused by aspartame.

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