Aspartame and cancer

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener used in thousands of products worldwide. Questions about a possible link between aspartame and cancer have persisted for decades. However, compelling evidence now indicates that aspartame is a carcinogen. This fact sheet summarizes the evidence on aspartame and cancer, including important new evidence, and makes recommendations.

Aspartame (Nutrasweet)

Aspartame (sometimes marketed under the brand names Equal, NutraSweet, or AminoSweet) is a chemical combination of two amino acids and methanol. Questions of cancer and neurological problems, such as dizziness or hallucinations, have swirled around aspartame for decades.

Clean Labels Report

CSPI reviewed the clean-label programs of restaurant chains Chipotle Mexican Grill, Noodles & Company, Panera Bread, and Papa John’s, and supermarket chains Ahold Delhaize (Food Lion, Giant Food, and Stop and Shop), Aldi, H-E-B, Kroger, Meijer, Supervalu, Target, Wakefern (ShopRite), and Whole Foods.

“Clean label” policies spurring restaurants & supermarkets to remove most of the worst additives

Taylor Swift urged to "Shake Off" aspartame

The Center for Science in the Public Interest is asking Grammy-award-winning singer Taylor Swift to drop her endorsement of Diet Coke, which contains aspartame, the artificial sweetener that has caused cancer in animals.

European Safety Review of Aspartame a Whitewash, Says CSPI

7UP Sued Over Antioxidant Claims on Cherry, Mixed Berry, and Pomegranate Flavors

Aspartame: New Study Renews Cancer Concern, Says CSPI

The smallest amount of aspartame (20 milligrams per kilogram of body weight) that caused a significant increase in cancer incidence is in the ballpark of what many people consume. The study also found equivocal results regarding brain tumors.

Food Additives Infographic

Aspartame Letter to Food Products Association, 2007