Are nonnutritive sweeteners safe?
Many nonnutritive sweeteners have been more thoroughly researched than some drugs or food additives currently on the market. In total, there have been more than 200 toxicological and clinical studies conducted over 30 years on aspartame alone. The ADA Evidence Analysis Library reviewed the evidence on the safety and effects of this common nonnutritive sweetener and concluded that consuming aspartame is “not associated with adverse effects in the general population.”2 The report further states, “Studies have found no evidence of an effect of aspartame on a wide range of adverse effects, including hypersensitivity reactions, elevated blood methanol or formate levels, hematopoeitic or brain cancers. Neurological changes tested included cognitive functions, seizures, headaches and changes in memory or mood.”2 The data from peer-reviewed journals suggest the same safety rating is true of other FDA-approved nonnutritive sweeteners. The ADA adds that scientists have evaluated these sweeteners
