Canadian Beverage Association Statement on Low-Calorie Sweeteners Opinion Piece

TORONTO, July 12, 2013 /CNW/ - In response to "Artificial sweeteners produce the counterintuitive effect of inducing metabolic derangements," an opinion piece published in Trends in Endocrinology & Metabolism, the Canadian Beverage Association issued the following statement:

Statement:
"This article is an opinion piece, not a scientific study and ignores the large body of scientific research that demonstrates the safety and benefits of low calorie sweeteners.

Low-calorie sweeteners are safe and effective tools in weight loss and weight management. They are some of the most studied and reviewed ingredients in the food supply today and have undergone decades of scientific research by regulatory agencies around the globe including Health Canada and the FDA.

Health Canada has stated to the Canadian Beverage Association that 'There is no evidence to suggest that the consumption of foods containing these sweeteners, according to the provisions outlined in the Food and Drug Regulations and as part of well-balanced diets, would pose a health hazard to consumers…'

The author selectively presented studies that supported her opinion and failed to include the vast number of studies that showed low calorie sweeteners are safe and can be effective tools in lowering or maintaining weight."

The Canadian Beverage Association is the national trade association representing the broad spectrum of companies that manufacture and distribute the majority of non-alcoholic refreshment beverages in Canada.

For more information, please visit our website www.canadianbeverage.ca

SOURCE: Canadian Beverage Association