Low- and no-calorie sweeteners are a hot topic in the media and among the public health community. Some folks are spreading stories that the low- and no-calorie sweeteners found in diet beverages are not safe. But the science behind these ingredients speaks for itself.

Low- and no-calorie sweeteners have been used in foods and beverages for decades and have been studied over and over by scientists around the world. The results have remained the same – these ingredients are safe.

Various organizations including the World Health Organization (WHO), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have repeatedly reaffirmed their safety, noting that they are not linked to adverse health outcomes, including cancer. In other words, low- and no-calorie sweeteners are safe for human consumption. Period.

Even better, studies show that drinking diet beverages may help overweight and obese individuals shed a few pounds since the beverages can help in both reducing calories and maintaining a healthy weight.

So next time you go to the store and are looking for options that help reduce calories don’t be deterred from picking up one of the wide range of low- or no-calorie beverages that our member companies offer. They are safe, a tool to help lose weight, and of course they are refreshing and delicious.

If you have more questions about the science behind these ingredients, visit LetsClearItUp.org.