Aspartame, a sweetener that has been widely used in various food products, has recently come under scrutiny due to its classification as a class 2B carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).
Although this classification may raise concerns among consumers, it is essential to understand that Health Canada is closely examining the comprehensive reports and assessments released by the WHO before making any decisions. The JECFA concluded there was no reason to change the previously established acceptable daily intake, so with that conclusion, a change in Health Canada’s permitted levels is unlikely.
Infographic image courtesy of World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer
Presently, the acceptable levels of Aspartame in food products range from 0.05% to 1.0% in product categories such as breakfast cereals, chewing gum, and unstandardized condiments to name a few.
Health Canada noted that they were open to the possibility of adjusting these levels if it deems necessary. That could mean potential adjustments to the range of products Aspartame can be used in or even the complete removal of Aspartame as a food additive, if the results were more conclusive.
But fret not!
There are numerous other sweeteners that have already received approval in Canada, providing a range of options for your products. Sweeteners like Erythritol, Stevia, Sucralose, and Acesulfame potassium are found in various Canadian food products, offering sweetness, and delivering results manufacturers want to see.
If you are looking to expand your product line in Canada, keep in mind that the list of approved food additives, including sweeteners, does vary between markets. Some sweeteners, like monk fruit extract and allulose, have already received approval for food additive use in the US but are yet to make their debut in Canada.
