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Non-Sugar Sweetener

Mythbusters

Non-Sugar Sweetener

The alternatives to sugar used in food and drink, and the science behind their safety
 
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Policy Brief: Non-Sugar Sweeteners [Mandarin] (JUN 2026)

The policy brief outlines the evidence on NSS, clarifies common misconceptions, and proposes policy considerations to enable their responsible use as part of comprehensive sugar-reduction strategies in SEA.

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Policy Brief: Non-Sugar Sweeteners [English] (JUN 2026)

The policy brief outlines the evidence on NSS, clarifies common misconceptions, and proposes policy considerations to enable their responsible use as part of comprehensive sugar-reduction strategies in SEA.

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Policy Brief: Non-Sugar Sweeteners [Bahasa Indonesia] (JUN 2026)

The policy brief outlines the evidence on NSS, clarifies common misconceptions, and proposes policy considerations to enable their responsible use as part of comprehensive sugar-reduction strategies in SEA.

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Can Non-Sugar Sweeteners Support Public Health Goals?

Reducing excess sugar intake remains a shared challenge across many countries. As governments and industry work to reduce sugar consumption, practical solutions matter. In FIA's third episode of 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨, Laurent Oger from the International Sweeteners Association (ISA) explains how non-sugar sweeteners are used in food and beverages: 🔸 Replace sugar while adding little to no calories 🔸 Support lower overall energy intake 🔸 Useful tools for people managing weight or diabetes When used appropriately, non-sugar sweeteners can form part of broader strategies to address non-communicable diseases. How should these tools be positioned within national nutrition policies?

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What does Science really say about Sweeteners, Gut Health, and Cravings?

Claims linking non-sugar sweeteners to gut health disruption or increased sweet cravings are common, but the evidence is more nuanced. In 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨, Laurent Oger, Director General at the International Sweeteners Association (ISA) , highlights how research in this area is developing: 🔸 Early findings came largely from high-dose or non-human studies 🔸 More recent research reflects real-world consumption levels 🔸 Current evidence does not show altered sweet taste preference from exposure to sweeteners This is a rapidly evolving field, where quality of evidence matters as much as the headlines. How should emerging science be communicated more responsibly to the public?

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The Science on Sweetener Safety is Clearer than Many Think

Public debate around artificial and natural sweeteners often centres on safety. But what does the science actually show? In this first episode of 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙎𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙎𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨, we spoke with Laurent Oger, Director General at the International Sweeteners Association (ISA), on how non-sugar sweeteners are assessed. 🔸 These ingredients are among the most thoroughly evaluated in the food system 🔸 Safety reviews are conducted through lengthy, independent scientific processes 🔸 At global level, bodies such as the WHO–FAO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) assess the evidence before approval 🔬 Science-led evaluation remains the foundation of food safety decisions.

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White Paper: Non-Sugar Sweeteners (JAN 2026)

This white paper examines Non-Sugar Sweeteners (NSS) as a viable solution to combat the rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and dental issues linked to high sugar consumption. It discusses the safety, efficacy, and appropriate use of NSS, emphasising their role in reducing sugar intake while maintaining taste, which is particularly important in regions with a strong cultural preference for sweet foods. Current scientific evidence supports that NSS do not pose health risks at approved intake levels, and their responsible use can support broader public health strategies aimed at improving dietary habits.