Is Aspartame Dangerous?

The World Health Organization (WHO)-linked group, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, has declared aspartame, a popular artificial sweetener, as a “possible carcinogen.” However, experts caution that the classification of a substance as a “hazard” does not necessarily mean it poses a significant risk. While aspartame may have a potential link to cancer, the effects would require consuming a large quantity, such as a dozen or more diet sodas in one sitting.

The WHO’s nutrition director emphasizes moderation rather than complete avoidance of aspartame. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives maintains its previous position that up to 40 mg of aspartame per kilogram of body weight per day is safe for consumption.

Aspartame, which is about 200 times sweeter than sugar, is widely used as a sugar alternative in various products such as diet sodas, breakfast cereals, and medications. However, it is not always clear how much aspartame is contained in these products, so consumers should be cautious.

The potential health risks associated with aspartame depend on the quantity consumed. For the average individual weighing 60 kg (about 130 lb), the threshold for adverse effects is estimated to be 12 to 36 cans of diet soda. The acceptable daily intake of aspartame, according to the JECFA, remains at 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day.

While the harms and benefits of aspartame are debated, some experts argue that there is no evidence that consuming products with artificial sweeteners improves overall health.

The classification of aspartame as a “possible carcinogen” places it in a category where there is limited evidence of cancer risk in humans but sufficient evidence in animals and resemblances to known carcinogens.

Despite extensive research, it is challenging to determine the real-world impact of aspartame consumption. Studies often use different amounts of aspartame compared to everyday consumption, and the development of cancer typically takes years or even decades after exposure.

Further review of the WHO group’s findings is underway by the Canadian Cancer Society and Health Canada.

While the classification of aspartame as a “possible carcinogen” raises concerns, experts advise moderation in consumption rather than complete avoidance. Current evidence suggests that occasional consumption within acceptable limits poses a low risk.