The Controversy Surrounding Aspartame: Cancer Risk and Popular Products

Aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in over 6,000 products, is facing questions about its safety as the cancer research arm of the World Health Organization (WHO) is set to declare it "possibly carcinogenic to humans." The WHO's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) will release its findings on July 14. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved aspartame for use in food products, concerns remain about its long-term effects. Aspartame is commonly found in zero-sugar sodas, sugar-free gums, diet drink mixes, reduced-sugar condiments, and tabletop sweeteners. Studies have linked aspartame consumption to cancer and other health issues, but the FDA and American Cancer Society still consider it safe for human consumption.