The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the cancer research arm of the World Health Organization (WHO), has declared that aspartame, a common artificial sweetener, is a possible carcinogen.
This determination was made after a thorough evaluation of scientific data from various sources.
However, the joint WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization’s expert committee on food additives (JECFA) stated that aspartame is safe to consume at agreed levels.
Aspartame, which is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar, is used as a substitute for sugar in many popular drinks, including Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, and Pepsi Max.
DRINKS THAT CONTAIN ASPARTAME
- Diet Coke
- Coca-Cola Zero Sugar
- Sprite Zero Sugar
- Fanta Orange – Zero Sugar
- Schweppes Ginger
- Schweppes Pineapple with Malt Extract
- Schweppes Bitter Lemon
- Red Bull Sugar-Free
- Pepsi Max
- Fanta Zero
- 7Up Zero Sugar
- 7Up free
While controversies have surrounded aspartame, with some studies suggesting potential health risks, regulatory agencies in various countries have approved its use.
The WHO will continue to monitor new evidence and encourage further research on the potential health effects of aspartame.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
