Aspartame is one of the most commonly used sweeteners.
The World Health Organization (WHO) intends to classify the sweetener aspartame as a “potentially carcinogenic” substance, sources tell the news agency Reuters.
Aspartame is one of the most commonly used sweeteners. It is often used, for example, in soft drinks and sweets. Until now, the world’s health authorities have generally considered it safe.
The cancer risk classification is done by the WHO’s internal cancer research agency IARC. The IARC classification does not prohibit or limit the use of aspartame, but the Food Industry, for example, closely monitors its decisions.
The WHO Committee on Food Additives is also planning to take aspartame on its table. The committee is about to publish a recommendation on how much aspartame is healthy for humans.
The WHO is expected to announce the new classification and recommendation on July 14.