The World Health Organization (WHO) recently classified aspartame, a common artificial sweetener, as "possibly carcinogenic to humans." This announcement has ignited a debate among scientists and health organizations, with many experts defending aspartame's safety.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the WHO, based its classification on "limited evidence" linking aspartame to cancer in humans and animals, specifically liver cancer. However, another WHO committee, the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), found the evidence unconvincing and maintained the acceptable daily intake of aspartame.

This seeming contradiction highlights the complexity of assessing cancer risk. While the IARC focuses on hazard identification, JECFA considers the actual risk based on consumption levels. The FDA, along with other agencies like the European Food Safety Authority and Health Canada, also supports aspartame's safety at recommended levels.

Numerous industry experts have voiced their disagreement with the IARC's classification. They emphasize the extensive research on aspartame and the lack of compelling evidence linking it to cancer at typical consumption levels. The FDA, in particular, has pointed out significant shortcomings in the studies cited by the IARC. Experts like Dr. Arnold Baskies, a surgical oncologist, highlight JECFA's authoritative role in food safety and the FDA's reliance on its assessments.

The Calorie Control Council also defends aspartame, emphasizing the unrealistic consumption levels needed to pose any safety concern. They criticize the IARC's approach as misleading and not reflective of real-world intake. Dr. Ernest Hawk, while acknowledging the WHO's careful review, underscores the "limited" nature of the evidence and calls for more research. He points out that numerous other reputable organizations have found no clear link between artificial sweeteners and cancer at typical consumption levels.

While the debate continues, some medical professionals advise caution, noting potential sensitivities and allergies to aspartame. They suggest prioritizing natural sugars from fruits and vegetables. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should strictly avoid aspartame due to their inability to metabolize phenylalanine, an amino acid present in the sweetener. As research progresses, experts recommend focusing on a balanced, healthy diet rich in whole foods and paying attention to emerging scientific findings.