Aspartame is an artificial sweetener widely used in various food and beverage products since the 1980s, including diet drinks, chewing gum, gelatin, ice cream, dairy products such as yoghurt, breakfast cereal, toothpaste, and medications such as cough drops and chewable vitamins.
Understanding aspartame
Aspartame is composed of two amino acids (phenylalanine and aspartic acid), linked to a methyl group. When consumed, it breaks down into these components, along with methanol, which is further metabolised into formaldehyde and formic acid. Despite these breakdown products, the amounts produced are relatively small and within safe levels for human consumption.
Carcinogenicity of aspartame
The claim that aspartame may induce tumours, increase their incidence or malignancy, or shorten the time of tumour occurrence originated from early studies conducted on animals, which suggested a potential link between aspartame consumption and cancer. However, subsequent human studies have not supported this association. Regulatory agencies, after reviewing extensive data, concluded that aspartame does not pose a risk of cancer when consumed within recommended levels. However, a semi-independent committee for the WHO said that it is “possibly carcinogenic to humans”. But as alarming as the designation might sound, this label does not mean your diet soda causes cancer just yet.
The designation means that some of the research reviewed by WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) shows that there may be a possible link between aspartame and liver cancer, but that science is by no means conclusive, like it is for a substance like asbestos or tobacco.
Aspartame guidelines
According to the WHO, a daily maximum of 40 milligrams of aspartame per kilogram of body weight can be consumed. Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) also reaffirmed that it is safe for a person to consume within this limit per day. For example, with a can of diet soft drink containing 200 or 300 mg of aspartame, an adult weighing 70kg would need to consume more than 9–14 cans per day to exceed the acceptable daily intake, assuming no other intake from other food sources.
Aspartame remains one of the most thoroughly studied food additives, and scientific evidence supports its safety for the majority of the population when consumed within approved limits. While some individuals may experience mild reactions, such as headaches, the general consensus among regulatory bodies is that aspartame is safe for human consumption. As with any food additive, moderation is essential, and individuals with specific health conditions, such as phenylketonuria, should avoid aspartame. For the broader population, aspartame can be a valuable tool in reducing calorie intake and supporting a balanced diet.
As science continues to evolve, ongoing research will further enhance our understanding of aspartame and its potential effects on human health. As we move forward, informed decision-making and evidence-based evaluations will be crucial in dispelling myths and providing accurate information about this widely used artificial sweetener.