Article By: Mansi Nautiyal

Background

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has designated aspartame, a widely used sweetener, as a “possible” human carcinogen (class 2B), contrasting its classification with that of red meat as a “probable” human carcinogen (class 2A) and processed red meat as carcinogenic to humans (class 1). In contrast, the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) takes a more comprehensive approach by considering dosage and reaffirming the safety of aspartame under typical conditions of use. Both IARC and JECFA acknowledge the scarcity of data suggesting a plausible carcinogenic risk, particularly concerning limited observational epidemiological studies that assess the correlation between consumption of artificially sweetened beverages and hepatocellular carcinoma, presuming aspartame as the sweetener used. However, confounding factors always remain a concern as individuals who opt for higher quantities of artificially sweetened beverages may differ in other characteristics influencing their health. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has meticulously evaluated these studies and dissented from IARC’s viewpoint due to the manifold limitations encountered.

For individuals desiring to avoid aspartame or other artificial sweeteners in their food, it is advisable to scrutinize the ingredient lists. However, substituting aspartame with added sugars is ill-advised from a health standpoint, given the well-established risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.

Separating Fact from Fiction, Demonstration the actual truth

Dr. Mary Schubauer-Berigan from the IARC Monographs program emphasized the importance of further research to enhance our understanding of whether aspartame consumption carries a carcinogenic risk. The existing evidence, which is limited in both human and animal studies, suggests a potential but inconclusive link to cancer. Additionally, the mechanisms through which this carcinogenicity may occur also require further investigation.

However, it is important to note that the overwhelming majority of scientific studies and regulatory assessments have concluded that aspartame is safe for general consumption within acceptable daily intake levels. Nonetheless, individuals with specific health conditions or concerns should consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice. For much clarification on aspartame and no-calorie sweeteners, you can also refer to this article https://www.globalfoodconsumers.org/news/sugar-free-sweeteners/

Industry Groups are not satisfied With Conclusion. But why?

Various industry groups disagree with IARC’s classification of aspartame as a “possible” carcinogen. The American Beverage Association emphasizes that aspartame is safe, supported by four decades of scientific research and regulatory approvals from over 90 food safety authorities worldwide. Similarly, the Calorie Control Council disagrees with IARC, highlighting that IARC is not a regulatory agency or food safety authority and does not consider actual dietary intake when evaluating substances. The council argues that IARC’s classification of aspartame could be misleading for individuals seeking to reduce sugar intake for weight management or health conditions like diabetes.

Source:https://www.who.int/news/item/14-07-2023-aspartame-hazard-and-risk-assessment-results-released