Debate Over Health Issues
The most commonly distributed version of Diet Coke (and majority of beverages using artificial sweeteners) relies on aspartame, which has been suggested to pose a health concern. Aspartame is one of the most intensively scrutinized food additives. See also soft drink controversy and health concerns.
Coca-Cola has now released Diet Coke sweetened with sucralose (also known as Splenda), although it is not as common.
The sodium benzoate was found to break down mitochondrial DNA in living yeast cells. Research published in 2007 for the British government's Food Standards Agency suggests that sodium benzoate (E211) is linked to hyperactive behavior and decreased intelligence in children. In January 2008 sodium benzoate was removed from production lines for Diet Coke sold in the UK, however it remains in other Coke products and other production locations.
Read more about this topic: Diet Coke
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