ICGA Response to the WHO review of aspartame
Washington D.C., USA, July 13, 2023. 6.30 pm.
Earlier today, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the results of parallel reviews of aspartame by two WHO authoritative bodies -- the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). The results of JECFA’s review mean that aspartame - one of the most thoroughly researched food ingredients in history – is considered by experts to be a safe food additive at currently permitted levels.
Media Resources - For media inquiry:
- media@sweeteners.org or info@caloriecontrol.org or by phone at +1-833-318-2430
- ISA press release on WHO review of aspartame
- icga@gumassociation.org or by phone at +32 2 645 50 60
- ICGA reactive statement on WHO review of aspartame -- see below Read more
Chewing gum and food safety
All chewing gum ingredients used by ICGA members are safe for use and technically justified
Chewing gum is one of the most highly regulated food products in the world. From the ingredients in gum base to the sweeteners, flavors, and colors that make possible the almost infinite variety of chewing gum options, the safety of chewing gum ingredients is scientifically supported and officially accepted under national, regional, and international regulations and standards. All ICGA members commit to manufacturing chewing gum, chewing gum bases, and ingredients for use in the manufacture of chewing gum or chewing gum base to high standards of safety and quality using only food grade raw materials and/or ingredients for which there is adequate and internationally acceptable safety data and/or which are approved by qualified government regulatory agencies.
read moreChewing gum and health
Chewing gum provides scientifically supported health and other benefits
Chewing gum provides more than just good taste and enjoyment. It also provides demonstrated health and other benefits that are consistent with a healthy and active lifestyle.
read moreChewing gum and informed consumer choices
Important information on very small labels
ICGA members are committed to providing the information that consumers want and need to make informed choices, all in the very limited available space on labels of small packs. Accordingly, ICGA advocates harmonized labeling requirements that ensure that consumers are fully informed about all the important product attributes, while recognizing that, chewing gum’s nutrition contribution tends to be limited, thereby justifying more flexible ways of providing nutrition information.
read moreChewing gum and sustainability
Working to keep our sidewalks clean
ICGA and its members understand the impact that our products can have on the environment, and we are fully committed to doing our part to ensure that consumers dispose of their chewing gum properly.
read more