Aspartame Sweetener Facing Potential Cancer Risk Label by WHO
Aspartame, a common ingredient in Diet Coke, could be designated as a potential carcinogen next month by the World Health Organization’s cancer research unit, sparking debates amongst industry and health authorities.
Aspartame, a popular artificial sweetener found in products like Diet Coke, is on the brink of being categorized as potentially carcinogenic by next month. This announcement may incite significant disputes between industry giants and health regulatory bodies.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a specialized agency under the World Health Organization dedicated to cancer research, is likely to identify aspartame as a potential cancer-causing agent from July onwards, according to insider sources who spoke to Reuters.
Aspartame, a taste-enhancing substance roughly 200 times sweeter than sugar, is a low-calorie, colorless and odorless powder. It falls under the category of E numbers, a term used for food and drink additives.
This decision from IARC, finalized earlier this month following consultations with the agency’s external experts, aims to determine if something poses a potential risk, taking into account all available published evidence.
However, IARC’s determination doesn’t consider the safe consumption limits of a product. Recommendations on safe intake come from a separate body within the WHO, the Joint WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization’s Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), along with insights from national regulators.
In the past, similar classifications by IARC for other substances have triggered consumer worry, instigated legal actions, and pressured producers to reformulate products or search for substitute ingredients. This has led to criticisms that IARC’s evaluations could be misleading for the general public.
Simultaneously, JECFA, the additives committee of WHO, is scrutinizing the use of aspartame this year. The committee started its meeting at the end of June and is expected to announce its findings on July 14th, the same day IARC will publicly disclose its decision.
Since 1981, JECFA has maintained that aspartame is safe to consume within prescribed daily limits. For instance, an adult weighing 60kg (132 pounds) would need to consume between 12 and 36 cans of diet soda daily – depending on the aspartame content – to be at risk. This perspective is largely endorsed by national regulators, including those in the United States and Europe.
Both the findings of IARC and JECFA will remain confidential until July, according to an IARC spokesperson. They also noted that the two sets of findings are “complementary”, with IARC’s conclusion providing “the fundamental first step to understand carcinogenicity”. The additives committee focuses on risk assessment, determining the likelihood of a specific harm (like cancer, fibromyalgia, and leukemia) occurring under certain conditions and levels of exposure.
However, a simultaneous review process by both committees has prompted concerns from industry and regulators about potential confusion, as evidenced by letters from US and Japanese regulators obtained by Reuters.
In response to this impending decision, the International Sweeteners Association (ISA), a consortium that includes Mars Wrigley, Coca-Cola, and Pepsico, expressed indignation. They allege that the IARC decision is grounded in “discredited research”.
The ISA voiced “serious concerns about the IARC review, which may mislead consumers”.
Frances Hunt-Wood, the secretary general of ISA, criticized the IARC by stating, “IARC is not a food safety body and their review of aspartame is not scientifically comprehensive and is based heavily on widely discredited research.”
Aspartame has been subjected to years of study and research. A French study published in March of the previous year indicated that it might increase the risk of cancer in consumers. Health experts from the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research, and Sorbonne Paris Nord University, reviewed data and proposed a potential increased risk for breast cancer and obesity-related cancers. Other studies show a link to obesity with high blood sugar levels, leukemia and damage to good gut bacteria.
However, comprehensive human studies conducted previously found no such associations, and UK health experts assert that no causal link has been established.
Separately, a study released in December of the previous year found a link between aspartame, which is used in nearly 5,000 diet foods and beverages, and anxiety in mice. This study, published in the journal PNAS, noted that mice that consumed aspartame experienced anxiety, and these effects extended up to two generations from the male rodents exposed to the sweetener.
Why it is Important to File Your Aspartame Lawsuit
Filing an Aspartame lawsuit is important for a number of reasons:
- Seeking Compensation: One of the most significant reasons to file a lawsuit is to recover financial compensation. This can help cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred as a result of health complications linked to aspartame.
- Holding Companies Accountable: Filing a lawsuit can hold responsible parties, such as manufacturers, accountable for their actions. If a product is proven to be harmful, the manufacturer must bear the consequences of their negligence or failure to inform consumers about the potential risks.
- Raising Awareness: A lawsuit can draw attention to the potential risks and adverse effects associated with aspartame. This could lead to increased regulatory scrutiny and potentially safer alternatives in the future.
- Prevent Further Harm: By taking legal action, you can contribute to a body of evidence that may prompt regulatory bodies to reconsider the status of aspartame, potentially preventing further harm to others.
Remember, in such cases, it is essential to seek the guidance of an experienced law firm like Parker Waichman LLP. They can provide the support and legal expertise necessary to navigate through the lawsuit process effectively, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Filing an Aspartame Lawsuit
The process of filing a lawsuit over health complications caused by aspartame can be daunting. To help navigate this process, consider the following steps and why Parker Waichman LLP can be a strong partner in each phase:
- Initial Consultation: Before filing a lawsuit, it’s critical to discuss your case with a qualified attorney who can evaluate its merits. Parker Waichman LLP offers free, no-obligation consultations where they assess the details of your situation and provide legal advice tailored to your circumstances.
- Document Collection: Once you’ve decided to proceed, you’ll need to gather all relevant documents. This may include medical records, proof of aspartame consumption, and any related expenses. Parker Waichman LLP’s experienced team can guide you through this intricate process, ensuring you collect all necessary evidence to build a strong case.
- Filing the Lawsuit: After collecting the requisite documents, the next step is to formally file the lawsuit. This involves drafting a complaint outlining your claims and the damages you seek. Parker Waichman LLP’s skilled attorneys excel at drafting compelling legal documents that clearly present your case, maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Discovery Process: This stage involves the exchange of information between both parties. The attorneys at Parker Waichman LLP are expert negotiators, ensuring that they extract vital information from the opposing party while also protecting your interests.
- Trial or Settlement Negotiations: Depending on the course your case takes, it might proceed to trial or lead to settlement negotiations. Parker Waichman LLP has a solid reputation for robust representation in court and, alternatively, for securing substantial settlements during negotiations.
- Case Resolution: Whether your case concludes with a court verdict or a settlement agreement, Parker Waichman LLP remains committed to you until the end, ensuring you understand the outcome and any follow-up actions that might be required.
With each of these steps, Parker Waichman LLP demonstrates why they are a prime choice for representation in aspartame-related lawsuits. Their combination of experience, commitment, and client-centered approach puts you in the best position to seek justice and compensation for your suffering.
The Reasons Why Parker Waichman LLP Considered a Top-rate National Product Liability Law Firm
Parker Waichman LLP has earned a reputation as a top-rated national product liability law firm due to a multitude of reasons:
- Expertise and Experience: With decades of experience, Parker Waichman LLP possesses extensive knowledge in the field of product liability law. Their attorneys have handled numerous high-profile cases, developing invaluable expertise that ensures clients receive first-rate representation.
- Track Record of Success: Parker Waichman LLP has a proven history of winning substantial settlements and verdicts for their clients, showcasing their ability to effectively litigate challenging product liability cases and deliver successful outcomes.
- Client-Centric Approach: The firm is renowned for its commitment to clients. They prioritize understanding the unique needs of each individual, providing personalized legal advice and remaining responsive and accessible throughout the legal process.
- National Recognition: Parker Waichman LLP’s exceptional legal services have garnered national recognition. The firm has been distinguished by major publications and rating organizations, further cementing their status as a leading product liability law firm.
- No Win, No Fee Policy: Their contingency fee structure ensures clients only pay if they win their case. This demonstrates Parker Waichman LLP’s confidence in their ability to deliver positive results and their commitment to mitigating the financial risk for their clients.
- Advanced Legal Resources: Parker Waichman LLP has the resources to conduct extensive investigations, consult with top experts, and craft compelling legal strategies. Their comprehensive approach enables them to build strong cases and effectively confront large corporations.
- Dedication to Justice: Above all, Parker Waichman LLP is dedicated to seeking justice for victims of defective products. Their passion and determination shine through in their persistent pursuit of accountability from negligent parties.
These characteristics set Parker Waichman LLP apart and solidify their standing as a top-tier national product liability law firm.
CONTACT PARKER WAICHMAN LLP FOR A FREE CASE REVIEW
Parker Waichman LLP helps families recover monetary compensation for harm caused by toxic substances like PFAS. For your free consultation, contact our national PFAS cancer law firm today by using our live chat or calling 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529).