The use of low calorie sweeteners has been very well studied both in humans and in animals. This research has shown no adverse effects on the mother or developing baby related to the use of low calorie sweeteners.
Before being authorised for use in food and drinks, all low-calorie sweeteners must undergo a range of safety evaluations by independent national and international scientific expert committees, including the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives of the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organisation and the World Health Organisation (JECFA) at international level, and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) at European level. These evaluations take into account potentially sensitive groups such as pregnant women, infants and children.
There are many factors that increase the risk of premature births, such as smoking, diabetes, poor nutrition, anaemia, stress, depression and many more. They include overweight and obesity.
By providing sweetness without calories, sweeteners can make a useful contribution to a healthy, calorie-controlled diet.
For more information on low calorie sweeteners, please visit the website of the International Sweeteners Association (ISA): www.sweeteners.org
