The World Health Organization’s cancer research arm recently declared aspartame to be a possible carcinogen, casting new doubt on its safety as an artificial sweetener used in diet soda and thousands of other products. But another group within their agency that makes recommendations regarding food additives chose to keep its previous guidelines for how much aspartame can safely be consumed daily.
The Lyon, France-based cancer agency regularly reviews potential cancer hazards and categorizes them into four groups. Carcinogenic substances – those which cause cancer directly – fall under Category 1. Tobacco smoke and UV radiation can increase cancer risks; while aspartame now falls into Category 2B alongside Asian-style pickled vegetables and engine exhaust fumes.
IARC made its decision after several animal studies indicated aspartame may increase liver cancer risks, and one human study tracking the habits of 100,000 adults found a similar correlation. Although the studies were imperfect and difficult to prove conclusively that aspartame raised risks.
The American Beverage Association, a lobby group for Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, claimed Thursday that IARC’s ruling validated their position that aspartame is safe for consumers looking to reduce calories. But Dr Donald Hensrud of Mayo Clinic says its latest findings shouldn’t discourage people from cutting back on sugar intake – indulging in aspartame is indeed less calorie-dense alternative; but drinking too many can contribute to obesity and weight gain.
