Geneva: According to sources familiar with the matter, aspartame, one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners in the world, is expected to be classified as a potential carcinogen (a substance capable of causing cancer) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) next month. IARC, the cancer research arm of the World Health Organization (WHO), will reportedly label aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic to humans” for the first time. This move has created a divide between the food industry, regulators, and health experts.
The IARC’s assessment is based on a comprehensive review of published evidence and aims to determine potential hazards associated with a substance, regardless of the safe consumption limits for individuals. Separate from the IARC, the WHO’s Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) provides guidance on acceptable daily intake levels. JECFA is also currently reviewing the use of aspartame and is expected to release its findings on the same day as the IARC, July 14.
JECFA has endorsed the safety of aspartame since 1981, noting that it is safe within specified daily limits. National regulators, including those in the United States and Europe, share this view. However, previous IARC classifications have raised concerns, sparked lawsuits, and prompted manufacturers to seek alternatives, leading to criticism that IARC assessments can be perplexing for the public.
Industry and regulatory bodies have expressed concerns about the simultaneous review processes of the IARC and JECFA, as they may create confusion. In a letter to the WHO, Japanese regulators requested coordination to avoid any misunderstandings or public concerns. Despite these concerns, both the IARC and JECFA maintain that their assessments are complementary, with the IARC focusing on understanding the fundamental aspects of carcinogenicity.
The International Sweeteners Association (ISA), representing members such as Mars Wrigley, Coca-Cola, and Cargill, expressed reservations about the IARC review, calling it scientifically incomplete and based on discredited research. The ISA emphasised that aspartame is legal worldwide and has been defended for decades by major food and beverage industries.
While the IARC’s classification aims to encourage further research for more conclusive conclusions, it is expected to reignite debates about the IARC’s role and the overall safety of sweeteners. Recently, the WHO published guidelines advising against the use of non-sugar sweeteners for weight control, which sparked controversy in the food industry that argues these sweeteners can be beneficial for consumers looking to reduce sugar consumption.
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