Contradictory Views: WHO Report Suggests Sweetener Aspartame ‘Possibly’ Carcinogenic, FDA Holds Different Opinion

In the 1980s, Coca-Cola started adding aspartame, an artificial sweetener, to Diet Coke. Aspartame is used in many products, including diet sodas, low-sugar jams, yogurts, cereals, and chewing gum. Recently, a committee of 25 international experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) released a report stating that aspartame may “possibly” cause cancer. This classification is based on limited evidence and does not change the recommended daily intake of aspartame. The FDA disagrees with this classification, citing evidence of safety. The WHO recommends moderation for “high consumers” of aspartame-containing foods. They also advise against using non-sugar sweeteners for long-term weight management. While the WHO has not changed the acceptable daily intake of aspartame, they call for more research. Aspartame was approved as a sweetener in the US in 1974 and was introduced into Diet Coke in the 1980s. Despite its popularity, there have been skeptics and small studies suggesting potential risks and altered food cravings associated with artificial sweeteners. The WHO reviewed the evidence on aspartame and found “limited” evidence that it may cause liver cancer. However, the evidence from studies linking aspartame to cancer is inconsistent, and the WHO’s Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives concluded that the evidence is not convincing. The FDA also disagrees with categorizing aspartame as a possible carcinogen. Scientists are calling for more long-term research on the effects of aspartame. While the evidence linking aspartame to cancer is unclear, some caution is advised, and people should limit their intake until more definitive studies are available. The American Beverage Association, which includes major soda companies, supports the FDA’s position and states that aspartame is safe. There is conflicting evidence on whether diet soda helps with weight management, but swapping caloric beverages for zero-calorie alternatives may be beneficial. Water, coffee, and tea are recommended as the best daily beverage choices. Overall, the evidence linking aspartame to cancer in humans is weak, and moderate consumption may be acceptable for those managing their weight.

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