Position statement on sweeteners

Joint position statement on the use of low- or no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS)

About this position statement

Position statements set out our views on an important area in nutrition and may provide guidance to researchers, regulatory agencies and policy makers, health professionals, the food industry and the media.

This position statement was produced by expert scientists representing the involved organisations, and reviewed by the British Dietetic Association, the British Nutrition Foundation’s Scientific Committee and Diabetes UK’s Diabetes Lived Experience Advisory Committee.

Executive Summary

• Approved low- or no-calorie sweeteners are considered safe when consumed within established Acceptable Daily Intakes.
• Low- or no-calorie sweeteners can play a role in supporting weight management and diabetes management strategies, but they are not a stand-alone solution, A healthy, balanced dietary pattern that is lower in sugars, saturated fats and salt, and high in fibre (including foods such as fruit and vegetables and wholegrains) remains key. 
• For regular sugar-sweetened beverages consumers, low- or no-calorie sweetened beverages may be a useful alternative, particularly for individuals at higher risk of type 2 diabetes. While water is the ideal choice, low- or no-calorie sweetened beverages may support a gradual transition away from sugar-sweetened beverages.
• Healthcare professionals should provide evidence-based, individualised guidance on low- or no-calorie sweeteners use.
• Further research and improved data are needed to better understand low- or no-calorie sweeteners consumption, particularly in the context of food and drink reformulation, as well as to evaluate their long-term health effects and behavioural outcomes.

Plain English Summary

Low- or no-calorie sweeteners are increasingly used in the food industry as a strategy to reduce the sugar content of products and meet reformulation targets aimed at improving public health. However, they should not be viewed as a “cure-all” solution. The primary goal remains the promotion of a healthy, balanced diet. For health professionals, this means providing personalised, evidence-based guidance on the appropriate use of sweeteners within the context of overall dietary quality. For food manufacturers, it involves developing products that not only reduce added sugar but also support broader nutritional goals, contributing positively to public health.

Low- or no-calorie sweeteners have been evaluated for safety for use within established acceptable daily intakes (ADIs). For example, based on current regulatory guidance, an adult with no other dietary sources of aspartame could theoretically consume up to 12 cans of soft drinks sweetened at the maximum permitted level daily without exceeding the ADI (see Appendix). However, this is a theoretical upper limit and not a recommended intake. Further research is needed to better understand actual consumption patterns and the potential long-term effects of these sweeteners on health and behaviour.

To read in full, download the position statement.

An insights document, summarising the evidence on low and no calorie sweeteners and health is also available - download the insights document.