Amid ongoing debates around the safety of artificial sweeteners, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its evaluation of aspartame, one of the most widely-used sweeteners globally. A panel from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a subsidiary of the WHO, has classified aspartame as a “possible carcinogen.” This classification is based on limited evidence linking aspartame consumption to hepatocellular carcinoma, a form of liver cancer. The findings come from three studies conducted in both the United States and Europe, with the first study published in 2016.
However, it is important to note that this classification is not an assessment of the actual risk posed by aspartame, but rather an indication of potential hazard. Another panel, the WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Joint Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), based in Geneva, conducted its own comprehensive review. JECFA determined that there is no convincing evidence of harm caused by aspartame consumption and hence reaffirmed its earlier recommendation for people to limit their consumption of aspartame to 40mg/kg per day.
This daily limit has been in place since 1981, and regulatory bodies worldwide have aligned their guidance accordingly. The WHO assures that this consumption level is far below any potential risk, as an average person weighing 60-70kg would have to drink over 9-14 cans of soda daily to exceed this limit, which is around 10 times more than what most people consume.
Even though the IARC’s classification raises concerns, independent scientists emphasize that the evidence linking aspartame to cancer is weak. They argue that Group 2B categorization is conservative, as any hint of carcinogenicity, even if based on flawed evidence, lands a substance in this category. Experts believe that more research, particularly large observational studies considering aspartame intake, is needed to clarify any potential carcinogenic hazard associated with the sweetener.
There are concerns that the new classification of aspartame as a “possible carcinogen” could lead some individuals to switch from diet soda to sugar-sweetened beverages, which are linked to weight gain and obesity. Therese Bevers, medical director of the Cancer Prevention Center at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, underscores the importance of addressing weight-related risks compared to the minimal potential risk posed by aspartame.
Both the beverage industry and health organizations echo the WHO’s conclusion, emphasizing that aspartame, when used as part of a balanced diet, is a safe option that helps reduce sugar intake. The International Council of Beverage Associations reassures the public of aspartame’s safety, while the International Sweeteners Association highlights the critical role of low/no calorie sweeteners in achieving public health objectives.
In summary, while the IARC classifies aspartame as a “possible carcinogen,” the assessment by the JECFA and the WHO reaffirm the safety of aspartame when consumed within recommended limits. The priority for consumers should be to make informed choices and maintain a balanced diet.
