Following the publication of a study carried out by Cochrane – a British medical research charity – to provide evidence for the World Health Organization in readiment for its own report into low- and no-calorie sweeteners, a number of media outlets have picked up the story.

The review did not find solid evidence of any major safety issues.

Gavin Partington, Director General at British Soft Drinks Association, said:

“Low- and no-calorie sweeteners allow consumers to enjoy sweetness while managing sugars and calories in their everyday lives. Because they taste good and are low- or calorie-free, people are more likely to combine them with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle and stick to their dietary goals for weight management.

“In March 2017, the UK Government and Public Health England publicly endorsed the use of low-calorie sweeteners as a safe alternative to reduce sugar in food and drink and help people manage their weight.

“The increased use of low-calorie sweeteners in soft drinks has led to a significant reduction in sugar and calorie intake (from soft drinks). Kantar Worldpanel data shows overall sugar intake from soft drinks is down by 22.9% since 2014.”