The World Health Organization said Friday it was now classifying aspartame, an artificial sweetener commonly used in soft drinks and chewing gums, as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The new assessment is based on limited evidence and keeps the acceptable daily intake level unchanged. However, the agency also noted that avoiding consuming too many products with artificial sweeteners is essential as they can have other adverse health effects.
The WHO’s cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, reviewed the available data and classified aspartame in a category known as Group 2B, which also includes such substances as aloe vera and lead, meaning that it may increase the risk of liver cancer in people who drink large amounts of diet beverages or other products containing the sugar substitute. The review was based on studies suggesting a link between aspartame consumption and hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer.
A second review by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives reconfirmed that aspartame’s current acceptable daily intake level is safe for most people. However, it also says pregnant women or children should not use aspartame under age 2. The expert panel’s conclusion was based on less conclusive data than the IARC’s but still considered the evidence sufficient to recommend limiting aspartame use.
Francesco Branca, the WHO’s nutrition and food safety director, said he does not think aspartame poses a significant threat for most people who consume it occasionally or in small doses. “I think the public should not be worried about it,” he told a press conference announcing the results of the two reviews. He added that consumers should avoid consuming too much of any non-sugar sweetener.
The WHO also noted that previous studies have shown that long-term use of artificial sweeteners does not help with weight loss and can cause health problems. The agency urged people to choose low-calorie foods and drinks that do not contain any natural or artificial sweeteners to achieve a healthy diet.
