You’ve probably seen in the news lately a few stories questioning the safety of low-calorie sweeteners.  We thought we’d take a few minutes to share some facts about diet soft drinks, and how their ingredients can be helpful when attempting to lose or manage weight.

Contrary to internet myths, the low-calorie sweeteners used in diet soft drinks and other beverages are safe, as supported by decades of scientific research as well as regulatory agencies worldwide, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition confirmed that diet beverages can be an important tool in helping reduce calories and directly counters the illogical assertion that drinking diet beverages causes people to eat more or to want sweet foods and beverages.

It is also important to remember that when it comes to obesity and weight gain, all calories count. Diet sodas are 99 percent water and have been proven to be an effective tool for weight loss and weight management. Many people trying to lose weight switch to diet beverages as one way to help reduce their calorie intake (without sacrificing flavor).  Low-calorie sweeteners, which are in diet beverages as well as a number of other foods, can help reduce calories and sugar intake and aid maintaining a healthy weight. This position is supported by health organizations including the American Diabetes Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Our member companies are committed to delivering what their consumers want, and they have a long history of creating innovative products to meet consumer demand. Today, there are more low- and no-calorie beverage options in a range of portion sizes than ever before.

The bottom line: low-calorie sweeteners are safe; diet beverages can be effective as part of a weight loss plan; and no- and low-calorie beverage options are just one of the many ways in which beverage companies are delivering more choices to their consumers.