Jul 14, 2023

ARLINGTON, VA - FMI, The Food Industry Association offered the following comments regarding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) reports regarding the safety of aspartame. Krystal Register, MS, RDN, LDN, senior director, health & well-being, FMI, said:

 “The World Health Organization’s food safety agency took a comprehensive approach in reviewing available clinical research and reaffirmed that aspartame is safe to consume at established Acceptable Daily Intake levels, in alignment with FDA’s longstanding position on the safety of aspartame.

 “The food industry and the scientific community recognize that aspartame is ‘one of the most studied food additives in the human food supply,’ per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and safe for the general population. Causal links between food additives and health are difficult to establish, particularly in observational studies. Amidst many current conversations around food, nutrients, science, and health, it is important to remain focused on empowering consumers to make healthy choices. We acknowledge our members across the food industry who continue to encourage balance, moderation and variety in overall healthy patterns of eating and remain steadfast in reaching consumers with evidence-based nutrition messaging.”

Background: FMI published a blog with more background information grounded in the FMI Food as Medicine policy and emphasizing the importance of balance and choice in overall healthy patterns of eating.