Lack of potential carcinogenicity for aspartame – Systematic evaluation and integration of mechanistic data into the totality of the evidence
Abstract Despite repeated confirmation of aspartame safety in a variety of foods and beverages, there continues to be interest in researching the potential carcinogenic risk associated with its consumption. The objective of this evaluation was to conduct a systematic assessment of available mechanistic data using a framework for quantitatively integrating the key characteristics of carcinogens […]
Potential consumer exposures to low/no calorie sweeteners: a refined assessment based upon market intelligence on use frequency, and consideration of niche applications
Abstract Data on current use levels of E950 acesulfame K, E952 cyclamic acid and its Na and Ca salts, E954 saccharin and its Na, K and Ca salts, E955 sucralose and E957 thaumatin, have been collected by the European food and drink industry in response to an EFSA call for data in support of its […]
Evaluation of aspartame cancer epidemiology studies based on quality appraisal criteria
Abstract Given the widespread use of the low-calorie sweetener aspartame over the last 30 years, the current work was undertaken to evaluate aspartame epidemiology studies looking at cancer endpoints against quality appraisal criteria. The quality appraisal tool used was from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) of the National Institute of Health. Studies […]
Estimation of exposures to non-nutritive sweeteners from consumption of tabletop sweetener products: a review
Abstract Reliable estimation of intake of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) from tabletop sweetener products (TTS) is complex. Some TTS contain more than one type of NNS and more importantly, there can be considerable formula variation between different types of TTS products; that is liquid, powder and tablet products. A survey of use levels (mg NNS/kg TTS […]
Assessing the in vivo data on low/no-calorie sweeteners and the gut microbiota
Abstract Low/no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) are continually under the spotlight in terms of their safety and benefits; in 2014 a study was published linking LNCS to an enhanced risk of glucose intolerance through modulation of the gut microbiota. In response, an in-depth review of the literature was undertaken to evaluate the major contributors to potential changes […]
Associations of artificially sweetened beverage intake with disease recurrence and mortality in stage III colon cancer: Results from CALGB 89803 (Alliance)
Abstract Purpose: Observational studies have demonstrated increased colon cancer recurrence and mortality in states of excess energy balance, as denoted by factors including sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, increased dietary glycemic load, and increased intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. Nonetheless, the relation between artificially sweetened beverages, a popular alternative for sugar-sweetened beverages, and colon cancer recurrence and survival is […]
Low-/No-Calorie Sweeteners: A Review of Global Intakes
Abstract The current review examined published data on the intake of all major low-/no-calorie sweeteners – aspartame, acesulfame-K, saccharin, sucralose, cyclamate, thaumatin and steviol glycosides – globally over the last decade. The most detailed and complex exposure assessments were conducted in Europe, following a standardized approach. Japan and Korea similarly had up-to-date and regular intake […]
Systematic review and evaluation of aspartame carcinogenicity bioassays using quality criteria
Abstract The current review assessed cancer studies of aspartame based on a quality appraisal using the Klimisch grading system. Nine studies having complete histopathology were included: three 2-year studies by Searle; three transgenic mice studies by the NTP; three lifetime studies by the Ramazzini Institute. A tenth study limited to brain tumors was not rated. […]
Dietary intakes of six intense sweeteners by Irish adults
Abstract This research investigated the intakes of six intense sweeteners; acesulfame-K (E950), aspartame (E951), cyclamate (E952), saccharin (E954), sucralose (E955) and steviol glycosides (E960) in the diets of Irish adults, using data from the National Adult Nutrition Survey (NANS). A food label survey which included products currently available on the Irish market supplemented the analysis. […]
Aspartame: A review of genotoxicity data
Abstract Aspartame is a methyl ester of a dipeptide of aspartic acid and phenylalanine. It is 200× sweeter than sucrose and is approved for use in food products in more than 90 countries around the world. Aspartame has been evaluated for genotoxic effects in microbial, cell culture and animal models, and has been subjected to […]