Review and synthesis of data on the potential environmental impact of artificial sweeteners

EFSA is implementing evidence-based risk assessments for the re-evaluation of certain sweeteners. The aim this work was to ensure that, as part preparatory done by support its Panel on Food Additives and Flavourings (FAF) in reaching conclusions safety permitted food additives, relevant information environmental risks associated with use artificial sweeteners are identified. In context process following substances used were considered: acesulfame-K (E 950), salt aspartame-acesulfame 962), sucralose 955), saccharins 954), thaumatin 957), neohesperidine DC 959), neotame 961), cyclamates 952) polyol (sorbitols 420); mannitol 421); isomalt 953); maltitols 965); lactitol 966); xylitol 967) erythritol 968)). Data collated using a systematic review approach. Generally, data identified extremely limited particularly respect DC, neotame, However, there also evidence suggest their widespread occurrence environment. With acesulfame-K, sucralose, saccharin multiple studies that demonstrate distribution these surface waters, groundwaters, coastal marine waters. There showing presence drinking (tap) water supplies, rainwater atmospheric samples. do not appear be highly toxic aquatic species, at least concentrations currently seen. easily dissociates into two component human body environment so considered aspartame despite it being specific focus regulatory process. Whilst some species detected levels concern