NCL's Letter to Health and Nutrition Leaders on Obesity

May 20, 2005

Dear Health and Nutrition Leader:

Facts are our strongest weapon in the fight to improve nutrition and reduce obesity.  And sadly, we all are aware of the fact that today obesity is a major public health problem in the United States – and much of the developed world.  With 64 percent of Americans overweight and more than 30 percent obese, the Food and Drug Administration considers obesity a national epidemic, and one that only seems to be getting worse. 

I am sure you are aware of recent coverage about a competitive dispute involving the sugar industry, as represented by the Sugar Association, McNeil Nutritionals, which markets Splenda® Brand Sweetener, and other artificial sweetener manufacturers.  The dispute concerns both advertising claims as well as allegations relating to ingredient safety.

The National Consumers League takes no official position “for or against” any of these individual commercial interests.  However, as a consumer organization with a very active role in public education and nutrition issues, we are concerned about the potentially damaging affects of this dispute in two important areas:

First, these competitor-driven media campaigns are diverting attention and resources from the far more pressing issue of our nation’s response to rising rates of obesity.  The consistent dissemination of factual information is absolutely crucial.  Charges and counter-charges about sugar or artificial sweeteners are sure to only further confuse consumers.  It is NCL’s position that both sugar and non-caloric sweeteners, such as Splenda® (sucralose),  Equal® and Nutrasweet® (aspartame), Sweet ‘N Low® (saccharine), and Sunett® (acesulfame potassium) can be part of a healthful diet.  Of course, while not the sole source of obesity, the over-consumption of sugar can contribute to excessive caloric input and weight gain.  The current strategy of the FDA is to combat obesity by focusing consumer’s attention on calories.  Artificial sweeteners are a useful alternative for people who wish to reduce their sugar consumption.

Second, FDA has determined that all four of the above-mentioned sweeteners are safe for human consumption.  Scare tactics referencing concerns for human health such as chlorine use in manufacturing or increased risk for certain diseases, are unfounded and can unnecessarily alarm consumers.  As you know, chorine is found naturally in numerous foods and is used in the production of several food products.

NCL urges all parties, including and perhaps especially the food industry, to work more cooperatively and constructively to address the very serious issue of obesity.  Competition in the marketplace is inevitable and can be useful when directed toward improving products and providing greater consumer choice.  But it should never come at the expense of consumer understanding and confidence.

                                                            Sincerely,

                                                            LINDA F. GOLODNER

                                                            President