Not so sweet: explaining the impact of sugar substitutes on the environment

Environmental researchers are calling for greater attention and potential regulation of artificial sweeteners, as they are building up in the environment and waterways around the world.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 14: In this photo illustration, food products that contain the artificial sweetener aspartame including Equal, Crystal Light, Trident, Diet Coke, and Royal Jello are displayed on July 14, 2023 in New York City. The World Health Organization classified the sugar substitute aspartame, which is used in numerous food products, as a possible carcinogen, but the group said it is safe for people to consume within the recommended daily limit. (Photo illustration by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) Credit: Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Key Points

• Food manufacturing giants have pivoted to articially sweetened goods.
• A new study out of the University of Technology, Sydney has found widely-used sugar substitutes are not decomposing and are turning into 'forever chemicals' that are comparable to PFAS in the potential harm to animals and the ecosystem.
• There have been conflicting findings in numerous global studies about the impact of sugar subsitutes we eat and drink.

LISTEN T THE PODCAST

Not so sweet: explaining the impact of sugar substitutes on the environment

SBS Filipino

05:47Filipino

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