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Sweet Deception: A Growing Recall Plagues Popular Zero-Calorie Sweeteners

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  Published in Science and Technology on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 23:20 GMT by WPIX New York City, NY
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For years, consumers have embraced zero-calorie sweeteners like erythritol, stevia, and monk fruit as guilt-free alternatives to sugar in everything from sparkling water to baked goods. These ingredients promised the sweetness without the calories, appealing to health-conscious individuals and those managing diabetes. However, a growing body of evidence is now linking these popular sweeteners, particularly erythritol, to an increased risk of cardiovascular events, triggering recalls and raising serious questions about their safety.

The current wave of concern stems from a recent study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ). Researchers analyzed data from over 60,000 individuals participating in the U.S. National Institutes of Health’s All-of-Foods Study. The findings were startling: those with the highest levels of erythritol in their blood had a significantly higher risk of heart attack and stroke compared to those with the lowest levels. This association remained even after accounting for other known cardiovascular risk factors like age, sex, race, body mass index, smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease.

While correlation doesn't equal causation, the study’s findings have prompted significant scrutiny from regulatory bodies and manufacturers alike. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged the concerns and stated it is reviewing the data. However, they maintain that erythritol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), a designation granted in 2012 based on previous assessments. This GRAS status allows companies to use erythritol without pre-market approval, which complicates the process of initiating recalls or stricter regulations.

The ripple effect has already been felt across the industry. Several major manufacturers have initiated voluntary recalls of products containing erythritol. Notably, Wholesome Foods, a prominent supplier of erythritol used in numerous consumer goods, announced a recall of its powdered erythritol product on April 19th due to concerns raised by the BMJ study. This recall impacts a wide range of products from various brands that utilize Wholesome’s ingredient. Consumers are urged to check labels carefully and discontinue use if they have any concerns.

Beyond erythritol, the spotlight is now turning to other zero-calorie sweeteners. While stevia and monk fruit haven't been directly linked to cardiovascular issues in studies of similar rigor as those examining erythritol, researchers emphasize that more investigation is needed. The BMJ study authors specifically noted that further research is crucial to determine whether these other sweeteners also pose a risk.

The complexity lies in the fact that these sweeteners are often used in combination, making it difficult to isolate the effects of each individual ingredient. Furthermore, the body’s response to these substances can vary significantly between individuals based on factors like gut microbiome composition and overall health status. Some research suggests that erythritol, unlike some other sugar alcohols, is largely absorbed into the bloodstream rather than being digested in the gut, potentially contributing to its systemic effects.

The implications of this unfolding situation extend beyond individual consumer choices. The food and beverage industry relies heavily on these sweeteners to create low-calorie alternatives, and a widespread shift away from them could significantly impact product formulations and pricing. Furthermore, the debate highlights the limitations of the GRAS system and raises questions about the adequacy of current safety assessments for food additives.

Experts are advising consumers not to panic but to be informed. Reading ingredient labels carefully is paramount, as erythritol and other sweeteners can be hidden in unexpected products. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should consult their healthcare providers before consuming these sweeteners regularly.

The future of zero-calorie sweeteners remains uncertain. While the BMJ study provides a compelling reason for caution, further research is needed to fully understand the risks and benefits associated with each ingredient. Until then, consumers are navigating a landscape where what was once considered a healthy alternative may now warrant closer scrutiny. The sweet deception, it seems, might be more complicated than initially perceived.