Aspartame declared possible carcinogen by WHO agency.
Aspartame declared possible carcinogen by WHO agency.
Artificial Sweetener, Aspartame, Sparks Debate on Cancer Risk
In a move that has stirred up a heated debate, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently announced that aspartame, an artificial sweetener widely used in diet beverages and other products, is a potential carcinogen. However, another WHO agency remains steadfast in its assertion that aspartame is safe when consumed within recommended doses. This conflicting information has raised questions regarding the safety of aspartame and its potential link to cancer.
Dr. Francesco Branca, the director of the WHO’s Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, emphasized the significance of cancer as a leading cause of death worldwide. He stated that the scientific community is continually expanding its understanding of factors that may contribute to cancer development in order to reduce its devastating impact. Branca acknowledged that while the safety of aspartame is generally not a major concern at commonly used doses, there is a need for more extensive studies to explore potential effects that have been described. This calls for a comprehensive investigation into the relationship between aspartame and cancer.
So, how much aspartame consumption raises safety concerns? According to the Calorie Control Council (CCC), an industry group, the average 150-pound person would need to consume about 14 12-ounce cans of diet beverages or approximately 74 packets of aspartame-containing tabletop sweetener daily throughout their lifetime to raise any safety concerns. This level of consumption is unrealistic, not recommended, and does not align with the intended use of these ingredients. The CCC asserts that this ruling exaggerates the potential risks associated with aspartame.
Unsurprisingly, this new ruling has been met with resistance from various industry groups. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) itself expressed disagreement with the conclusion reached by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a WHO agency responsible for the classification of aspartame as a possible carcinogen. According to the FDA, IARC’s determination does not indicate a direct causal link between aspartame and cancer. Kevin Keane, interim president and CEO of the American Beverage Association, also stressed that there is a widespread consensus among scientific and regulatory communities that aspartame is safe.
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The IARC arrived at its classification after analyzing three observational studies in humans, which found a potential association between aspartame-sweetened beverages and liver cancer. Notably, this link was observed at significantly lower consumption levels than what is deemed safe. Dr. Branca suggested that individuals should aim to drink water or unsweetened beverages when possible, although he added that occasional consumption of aspartame should not pose a risk to most individuals.
Artificial sweeteners have been subject to health concerns for decades, and aspartame is among the six sweeteners approved by the FDA. This artificially sweetened ingredient can be found in a variety of products, ranging from soda to sugar-free gum to yogurt. Despite the ongoing debate, food safety agencies around the world have consistently concluded that aspartame is safe for consumption.
While the contentious debate on the safety of aspartame continues, it is important to remember that moderation is key in all aspects of life. Aspartame, when consumed within recommended doses, is generally considered safe. However, for individuals who have concerns about potential risks, opting for water or unsweetened beverages may provide peace of mind. As further studies shed light on the potential effects of aspartame, it is essential to stay informed and make informed decisions about dietary choices.
Sources:
- World Health Organization
- Calorie Control Council
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- American Beverage Association
- New York Times
- U.S. National Cancer Institute
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