The Dubious Strategies of the Artificial Sweetener Companies

Critics warn consumers to be on the lookout for ways the artificial sweetener industry bends advertising rules to reach a growing market. 

Reading food labels can help consumers know whether artificial sweeteners have been added to products. Shutterstock

Artificial sweeteners garnered heavy political and legal criticism in 2023 for potential harms to human health. The hubbub, however, has not yet led to substantial changes.

Controversy surrounds the debate over whether artificial sweeteners support or undermine our health. Companies with vested interests try to captivate consumers with questionable claims about sweetened foods and beverages without high calories. A change in the World Health Organization’s sweetener recommendation midway through the year heightened attention on these practices.