Canadian Cancer Society Urges Adherence to Aspartame Consumption Limits Amidst WHO Classification Concerns

Canadian Cancer Society

The Canadian Cancer Society advises individuals to follow daily limits on aspartame consumption due to its classification as "possibly carcinogenic" by the World Health Organization (WHO). While further research is needed, existing evidence does not warrant changes in recommended guidelines. Learn more here.

Following the World Health Organization's (WHO) classification of aspartame as "possibly carcinogenic," the Canadian Cancer Society emphasizes the importance of adhering to current daily consumption limits. Elizabeth Holmes, Director of Health Policy at the Canadian Cancer Society, calls for additional research to better understand the potential link between aspartame and cancer. This article explores the concerns surrounding aspartame, current guidelines, and the need for further studies.

The Classification and Call for Research:

The WHO-affiliated International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Food and Agriculture Organization Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) conducted independent reviews on aspartame. While limited evidence suggested a potential association between aspartame and a specific type of liver cancer, other variables could not be definitively ruled out. Elizabeth Holmes invites proposals for research on aspartame, highlighting the Canadian Cancer Society's willingness to consider funding such studies.

Current Guidelines and Recommendations:

Both Health Canada and the WHO recommend a daily limit of 40 mg of aspartame per kilogram of body weight. Health Canada asserts that there is "no convincing evidence" to alter these recommendations, as more robust studies, including randomized controlled trials, are needed to establish a definitive link between aspartame and cancer. The summary of the study acknowledges the need for further research while affirming the existing consumption limits.

Putting Consumption into Context:

To provide perspective, the WHO notes that an average can of diet soda contains approximately 200-300 mg of aspartame. An individual weighing 70 kg would need to consume more than nine to fourteen cans of soda per day to exceed the recommended limit. While Professor David Ma from the University of Guelph expresses concern for individuals surpassing these levels, he emphasizes that most Canadians likely fall within the recommended consumption limit.

Viewing Substances as Hazards and Minimizing Risk:

Professor Ma highlights the importance of considering substances like aspartame as "hazards" rather than "risks." While they possess inherent hazards, responsible consumption can minimize the level of risk. Drawing a parallel with driving a car, he emphasizes that aspartame, when consumed within recommended limits, poses a relatively low risk.

In light of aspartame's classification as "possibly carcinogenic" by the WHO, the Canadian Cancer Society advises individuals to adhere to current daily consumption limits. While further research is necessary to establish a definitive link between aspartame and cancer, existing evidence does not warrant changes in recommended guidelines. Health Canada will review scientific reports to determine if any action is required. Understanding substances like aspartame as hazards allows for responsible consumption, minimizing potential risks.