Extract

Background and study aims There is public concern over the safety of the artificial sweetener aspartame and the European Food Safety Authority has brought together an expert committee to review the evidence. The UK Food Standards Agency has suggested a small study to look at the concerns of the public on the symptoms caused by aspartame. In this study we will use questionnaires and laboratory tests to determine whether the perceived effects of aspartame can be detected in people who say they have a problem eating aspartame, compared with people who consume aspartame with no problem. Who can participate? People who say they have a problem eating aspartame and people who normally consume foods containing aspartame with no problem. What does the study involve? Participants are asked to eat a snack bar containing aspartame and a matched bar containing no aspartame at two visits one week apart. The dose of aspartame is well below the maximum recommended level. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Not provided at time of registration. Where is the study run from? University of Hull and Hull Royal Infirmary Hospital (UK). When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? February 2010 to August 2012. Who is funding the study? Food Standard Agency (UK). Who is the main contact? Professor Stephen Atkin [email protected]

Inclusion criteria

• Safety study to assess the effect of aspartame

Links

• isrctn
• ictrp