LONDON: The sweetener aspartame has been classified as a “possible carcinogen” by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a part of the World Health Organization (WHO). However, the existing consumption limits for aspartame remain unchanged, as determined by the WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Joint Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).
The JECFA stated that there is no convincing evidence of harm caused by aspartame and recommended that individuals continue to limit their consumption to below 40mg/kg per day.
The IARC’s classification of aspartame as a “possible carcinogen” is based on limited evidence from three human studies and earlier controversial animal studies. The studies indicated a potential link between sweetener consumption and hepatocellular carcinoma, a form of liver cancer. However, scientists not associated with the reviews have stated that the evidence linking aspartame to cancer is weak.
WHO Guidelines for Consumption Levels of Aspartame
The WHO emphasized that the current consumption levels of aspartame, which are below the recommended limit, do not pose a significant risk to most consumers. For example, a person weighing 60-70kg would have to consume more than 9-14 cans of soda daily to exceed the limit, based on the average aspartame content in beverages.
Industry associations and experts have expressed support for the safety of aspartame and its role in reducing sugar intake. They have emphasized that aspartame remains a good option for individuals seeking to reduce sugar in their diets. Some doctors have also highlighted that weight gain and obesity are more significant risk factors than aspartame.
The WHO’s conclusion reaffirms the existing guidelines for aspartame consumption and underscores the need for further research to better understand any potential carcinogenic hazards associated with its consumption.
