European Food Safety Authority Re-Affirms Safety of Aspartame

One of the most comprehensive risk assessments ever undertaken confirms Health Canada's position on Aspartame

In response to a scientific opinion on the low-calorie sweetener aspartame issued by the European Food Safety Authority, the Canadian Beverage Association issued the following statement:

TORONTO, Dec. 11, 2013 /CNW/ - Yesterday the European Food Safety Authority once again re-affirms the safety of aspartame as it issued its scientific opinion on the re-evaluation of aspartame as a food additive.

According to the EFSA "'This opinion represents one of the most comprehensive risk assessments of aspartame ever undertaken. It's a step forward in strengthening consumer confidence in the scientific underpinning of the EU food safety system and the regulation of food additives', said the Chair of EFSA's Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources Added to Foods (ANS Panel), Dr Alicja Mortensen."

"We are very pleased with the EFSA's results as their opinion reinforces Health Canada's position that aspartame is safe for consumption by the general population, including pregnant women,' said Jim Goetz, President Canadian Beverage Association. "This opinion should dispel the many myths surrounding the safety of aspartame as it concludes that aspartame is safe."

The Panel based its evaluation on original study reports and information submitted following public calls for data, previous evaluations, and additional literature that became available during and after the public consultation up to and including November 15, 2013.

The EFSA news release: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/131210.htm

The full opinion here: http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/3496.htm

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