27 October 2005 - The European Parliament has rejected calls to re-evaluate the safety of an artificial sweetener linked to serious side-effects including headaches, nausea and severe allergic reactions.

Aspartame, widely used as a sugar replacement in ‘diet’ products – despite reported ill-effects - will remain on sale across the EU.

Green MEP Caroline Lucas, who proposed an amendment to a package of measures on food additives being considered in Strasbourg today, said she was very disappointed by the decision.

“I was simply seeking a re-evaluation of Aspartame’s safety, taking into account all the available data, diverging scientific assessments and respecting the precautionary principle.

“Aspartame has been linked with numerous cases of severe ill-health and my amendment sought to ensure its safety – or have it removed from supermarket shelves.

Dr Lucas, who is also a vice-president of the European Parliament’s cross-party consumer protection group, said: “MEPs have decided to side with the food and chemicals industries on this occasion and reject the precautionary principle out of hand.

“I am afraid the price will be paid by the most vulnerable in society, who run the greatest risk of being made ill by Aspartame.”

ENDS