Half of the Belgians consume aspartame: a European petition requires its prohibition in the face of this “increased risk of cancer” (infographics)

The survey carried out last August in seven European countries, including Belgium, shows that consumers are generally poorly informed about the presence of additives used in food. Thus, 72% of the 1,052 Belgians surveyed say “not at all/rather not” informed about the safety of the additives used in food products and drinks of daily life as well as their impact on health.
Increased cancer risk
Even if, 40% of respondents in Belgium say they are not influenced during their purchases by the presence of additives in the products they covet. For 22% of the Belgians interviewed, sweeteners have little risk in terms of health. Seventeen percents even believe that these substances have more benefits than health risks, as they would allow them to avoid eating sugar.
However, the consumption of sweeteners would be associated with an increased risk of cancer. The International OMS Cancer Research Center considers that aspartame is “perhaps carcinogenic for humans”. Thus, the artificial sweetener found in sodas, desserts or even drugs would present many health risks, especially for large consumers.
In addition to its carcinogenic character, aspartame (E951) would also be associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes development and cardiovascular disease. Finally, several studies show that it would have no positive effect on weight and could even, in the long term, promote overweight.
An additive with so many risks has no place in our foods or drinks
“An additive with so many risks has no place in our food or drinks,” said Camille Dorioz, director of the Foodwatch France campaigns, quoted in a press release. “By emphasizing the possible risks of cancer linked to aspartame, the WHO has sent a clear signal concerning the risk for our health. Our European decision-makers must protect us,” he urges.
Consequently, the organization that fights for a risk without risk is launching this Tuesday, on the occasion of World Day on Cancer, a petition to claim the ban on aspartame. The French league against cancer and the Yuka application (which analyzes the impact of food and cosmetic products on health) are also associated with the initiative.
Our European decision -makers must protect us
“Two European consumers surveyed out of three are favorable to a ban on aspartame as a precaution. ‘organization.
In a reaction, the Cancer Foundation recalls its recommendations, namely to get used to the youngest age to consume less sweet drinks and food. “The water must remain the basic drink. (…) Let us not forget that sugars contribute to overweight, which is one of the preventable risk factors in terms of cancer and other diseases,” said the foundation.
The eligible daily intake (AJA) for aspartame is set at 40 mg/kg of body weight per day.