Cancer Research Agency: Artificial Sweetener in Diet Sodas 'Probably Carcinogenic'

Reuters reports that 'aspartame', one of the most common artificial sweeteners in the world used in some diet sodas, is set to be declared a 'carcinogen' next month by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization (WHO). Aspartame, used to sweeten diet sodas from Coca-Cola and Pepsi, some gums, and several other diet beverages, will receive a 'carcinogenic' label for the first time. This decision by WHO, finalized earlier this month after a meeting with external advisors, is based on all available evidence but does not assess how much of the product an individual can safely consume. Similar decisions by the IARC in the past have raised consumer concerns and even led to lawsuits, putting pressure on manufacturers to produce alternatives. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives is the body that should determine safe consumption levels. This committee began its meeting at the end of June, with findings to be announced on July 14. Since 1981, this agency has stated that daily consumption of aspartame is accepted in limited amounts. An adult weighing 60 kg could be at risk of cancer if they consume between 12 to 36 cans of diet soda daily, depending on the aspartame content. The IARC's final rulings have significant impacts; in 2015, it stated that glyphosate herbicide is 'probably carcinogenic'. Years later, despite challenges from other health agencies, companies still felt the effects of this decision. Bayer of Germany lost its third appeal in a U.S. court in 2021 and was forced to compensate customers who claimed their cancer was due to glyphosate-based herbicides. The IARC has also faced criticism for raising unnecessary alarms about substances that are unavoidable in consumption. Classifying red meat and mobile phones as 'probably carcinogenic' are among the agency's controversial decisions. Frances Hunt-Wood, Secretary-General of the International Sweeteners Association, states that the IARC lacks expertise in food safety and that its review of aspartame is not scientifically comprehensive and is based on highly unreliable research. Aspartame has been extensively studied for years. Last year, a study in France examined 100,000 adults and found that those consuming higher amounts of artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, were 'slightly more' at risk of cancer. However, this study could not prove that aspartame increases cancer risk. Global regulatory bodies have deemed aspartame safe based on all available evidence, and major food and beverage manufacturers have defended its use for decades. The IARC claims to have evaluated 1,300 studies in its June review. Last month, the WHO released guidelines advising consumers against using artificial sweeteners for weight control, which angered the food industries. They argue that these sweeteners can be beneficial for consumers looking to reduce sugar intake in their diets.