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Diet Coke Sweetener Aspartame Classified as a Possible Carcinogen by WHO
What is Aspartame?
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that is commonly used in thousands of products including diet fizzy drinks, ice cream, and chewing gum. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar and is used as a substitute because it has very few calories and can achieve a similar taste in low concentrations. Approximately 6,000 products worldwide contain aspartame.
WHO Classification and Recommendations
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified aspartame as a possible carcinogen, but states that it is safe for people to consume within the recommended daily limit. This classification is based on limited evidence and more research is needed to determine whether consuming aspartame can actually lead to cancer. The Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) also states that the current evidence supporting a link between aspartame and cancer in humans is not convincing.
Recommended Daily Limit
According to JECFA, aspartame is safe to consume if a person's daily intake does not exceed 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight during their lifetime. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has a slightly higher recommended daily limit of 50 milligrams of aspartame per kilogram of body weight. An average adult would have to drink nine to 14 cans of aspartame-containing soda daily to exceed this limit.
Children and Aspartame
Children who consume soda sweetened with aspartame may exceed the daily limit by drinking just three cans. The WHO advises caution for children and recommends moderation when consuming foods or beverages that contain aspartame. More research is needed on the lifelong exposure to aspartame in children.
Food Industry Response
The WHO has not called for the withdrawal of products that contain aspartame, but suggests that the food industry consider changing ingredients to make products without the use of sweeteners. The American Beverage Association claims that aspartame is a safe choice for people who want to reduce sugar and calories in their diet.
Controversy and FDA Approval
Aspartame has been controversial since its initial approval. The FDA first approved it in 1974 but put the decision on hold due to safety concerns. The agency ultimately concluded that there was no link between aspartame and brain tumors and authorized its sales in 1981. The FDA continues to monitor the science for any new information on aspartame.
Conclusion: Assessing the Impact on a New Business
The classification of aspartame as a possible carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO) has generated significant attention and concern. While the WHO states that aspartame is safe for consumption within recommended limits, the controversy surrounding its potential health risks may have implications for a new business.
It is important for new businesses in the food and beverage industry to carefully consider the use of aspartame and the potential impact on consumer perception. Some consumers may be wary of products that contain aspartame, especially if they are concerned about the potential risk of cancer. This could lead to a lower demand for products that utilize aspartame as a sweetener.
On the other hand, the American Beverage Association maintains that aspartame is a safe choice for those looking to reduce sugar and calorie intake. A new business could position itself as providing a healthier alternative by using aspartame in its products. However, the business should also consider offering options without sweeteners to cater to those who prefer to avoid aspartame altogether.
In order to navigate this issue, new businesses should stay informed about the latest research and regulatory developments regarding aspartame. It's also important to communicate transparently with consumers about the use of aspartame and any potential risks, while emphasizing adherence to recommended daily limits.
Ultimately, the impact of the aspartame classification on a new business will depend on how it incorporates this information into its marketing and product offerings. By staying informed and addressing consumer concerns, businesses can make strategic decisions that align with consumer preferences and maintain trust in their brand.
Article First Published at: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/13/who-soda-sweetener-aspartame-may-cause-cancer-but-safe-within-limits.html.svg)
