Artificial sweeteners have long been a topic of debate among health experts and consumers. Aspartame, one of the most widely used sugar substitutes, has recently come under scrutiny as the cancer research division of the World Health Organization (WHO) intends to classify it as “potentially carcinogenic to humans.”
The Discovery and Use of Aspartame:
- Aspartame, the artificial sweetener in question, was discovered by accident in 1965 by James M Schlatter, a chemist working at the American pharmaceutical company G D Searle & Co. While conducting experiments on an anti-ulcer drug, Schlatter unintentionally tasted the sweet compound formed from aspartame, and thus, a new sweetener was born.
- Chemically, aspartame is a methyl ester of the dipeptide of two natural amino acids: L-aspartic acid and L-phenylalanine. Once ingested, it is metabolized in the body into its constituent components – aspartic acid, phenylalanine, and a small amount of methanol.
Widespread Use in Food and Beverages:
- Since its discovery, aspartame has found its way into thousands of food and drink products around the world. It is commonly used as a sugar substitute in cereals, sugar-free chewing gum, low-calorie fruit juices, and diet sodas. Its popularity as a low-calorie alternative to sugar stems from its intense sweetness, which allows for a reduced caloric content in the final product.
- Around 100 countries worldwide, including India, permit the use of aspartame in their food and beverage industry, making it one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners globally.
Aspartame and Cancer: The Ongoing Debate
- The potential link between aspartame consumption and cancer has been a topic of scientific investigation for several decades. While some studies have raised concerns, the evidence remains inconclusive, and no direct causation has been established between aspartame and cancer in humans.
- In 2022, an observational study conducted in France among 100,000 adults found that individuals who consumed larger amounts of artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, had a slightly higher risk of cancer compared to those who did not. However, this study was unable to definitively prove that the additive was the cause of the increased cancer risk.
- Similarly, in the early 2000s, the Ramazzini Institute in Italy reported some cases of cancer in mice and rats that had consumed aspartame. Nevertheless, these findings were challenged by other scientific experts, who pointed to issues with the study’s methodology and the potential for bias.
WHO’s Intention to Classify Aspartame as “Potentially Carcinogenic”:
- Despite the inconclusive evidence, the cancer research division of the WHO, known as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), intends to classify aspartame as “potentially carcinogenic to humans.” This classification indicates that there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and that further research is needed to establish a definitive link.
- The IARC’s decision is based on its assessment of all available scientific literature and data regarding aspartame and its potential health effects. While this classification raises concerns, it is essential to understand that “potentially carcinogenic” does not imply that aspartame definitively causes cancer. It highlights the need for continued research to better understand any potential risks associated with its consumption.
