The Lab
Specimen No. 0178
AvoidSyntheticfood harmful sweeteners

Saccharin

E954

A synthetic non-nutritive sweetener found in tabletop sweeteners and diet drinks. Its earlier cancer warning was removed in 2000, but questions remain about effects on the gut microbiome.

low confidence
Researched July 7, 2026
Saccharin molecular structure
Specimen 0178Saccharin

Concerns

  • Bladder tumors observed in male rats at high doses; IARC removed it from its carcinogen classification in 2010; some post-approval research suggests effects on the gut microbiome; rated cautiously as Avoid

Regulatory flags

  • ⚑IARC Class: Gr3
  • ⚑EDC Status: None
  • ⚑Regulatory: US: warning label removed 2000; EU: permitted; ongoing debate
  • ⚑Evidence Grade: B

Commonly found in

Sweet-N-Low, tabletop sweetener, diet drinks

Last researched: July 7, 2026

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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