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Low/no calorie sweeteners do not increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases

BRUSSELS, Belgium, Sept. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The International Sweeteners Association (ISA) responds to the new study by Debras, Chazelas et al.1 on low/no calorie sweeteners and cardiovascular diseases highlighting that, contrary to claims made in this study, there is no causal evidence that low/no calorie sweeteners could increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Indeed, whilst the Debras, Chazelas et al study claim to show an association between low/no calorie sweeteners intake and CVD risk, there is no evidence of a plausible mechanism to support potential effects of low/no calorie sweeteners on cardiometabolic health.2 The safety of all approved low/no calorie sweeteners has been confirmed by food safety bodies worldwide including the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and of the World Health Organization (WHO)3, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)4, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)5.

Actually, the intake of low/no calorie sweeteners in the NutriNet–Sant cohort was extremely low, even for higher consumers (defined in the study as participants with sweetener intake above the sex specific median among consumers). Importantly, experts have questioned the ability to detect an association between low/no calorie sweeteners at such low levels of intake and any health outcome and stressed that, in such circumstances, confounding factors become more influential.6 By design, observational studies cannot establish a cause–and–effect relationship due to their observational nature and the inability to exclude residual confounding or, importantly, attenuate the effects of reverse causality.7

Contrary to the study by Debras, Chazelas et al, a systematic review and meta–analysis of prospective cohort studies including change and substitutions analyses that mitigate the influence of reverse causality providing more consistent and robust associations found that low/no calorie sweetened beverages are associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease and CVD mortality in the intended substitution for sugar–sweetened beverages.8 These findings are in line with evidence from randomised controlled trials which confirm no adverse effect of low/no calorie sweeteners on cardiometabolic risk factors including blood pressure, lipid levels, blood glucose and body weight, and in fact some benefits when used to replace sugars in the diet. 9,10

At a time when non–communicable diseases including diabetes and dental diseases remain major global health challenges, and in light of current public health recommendations to reduce overall sugar intake, low/no calorie sweeteners can be helpful in creating healthier food environments. They provide people with a wide choice of sweet–tasting options with low or no calories, and thus can be a useful tool, when used in place of sugar and as part of a balanced diet, in helping reduce overall sugar and calorie intake, as well as in managing blood glucose levels.11 Low/no calorie sweeteners are also not fermentable by oral bacteria, which means that they do not contribute to tooth demineralisation, which is one of the reasons for tooth decay.12

1 Debras C, Chazelas E, Sellem L, et al. Artificial sweeteners and risk of cardiovascular diseases: results from the prospective NutriNet–Sante cohort. BMJ 2022;378:e071204.
2 Pyrogianni V, La Vecchia C. Letter by Pyrogianni and La Vecchia Regarding Article, "Artificially Sweetened Beverages and Stroke, Coronary Heart Disease, and All–Cause Mortality in the Women's Health Initiative". Stroke. 2019 Jun;50(6):e169
3 http://www.fao.org/food/food–safety–quality/scientific–advice/jecfa/en/
4 http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/sweeteners
5 https://www.fda.gov/food/food–additives–petitions/high–intensity–sweeteners
6 Magnuson B. Comments in response to the article by Debras et al "Artificial sweeteners and cancer risk: Results from the NutriNet–Sant population–based cohort study". Available at: https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article/comment?id=10.1371/annotation/edab6e54–e06a–4e33–ba10–f1a96bc43152
7 La Vecchia C. Comments in response to the article by Debras et al "Artificial sweeteners and cancer risk: Results from the NutriNet–Sant population–based cohort study". Available at: https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article/comment?id=10.1371/annotation/e28d577e–cd1c–42eb–85aa–7ea0cf0d5ccd
8 Lee JJ, Khan TA, McGlynn et al. Relation of Change or Substitution of Low– and No–Calorie Sweetened Beverages With Cardiometabolic Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta–analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies. Diabetes Care. 2022 Aug 1;45(8):1917–1930
9 McGlynn ND, Khan TA, Wang L, et al. Association of Low– and No–Calorie Sweetened Beverages as a Replacement for Sugar–Sweetened Beverages With Body Weight and Cardiometabolic Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta–analysis. JAMA Network Open 2022 Mar 1;5(3):e222092
10 Rios–Leyvraz M, Montez J (World Health Organization)". Health effects of the use of non–sugar sweeteners: a systematic review and meta–analysis. World Health Organization (WHO) 2022. https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/353064. License: CC BY–NC–SA 3.0 IGO
11 Diabetes UK. The use of low or no calorie sweeteners. Position Statement (Updated December 2018). Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/professionals/position–statements–reports/food–nutrition–lifestyle/use–of–low–or–no–calorie–sweetners
12 EFSA Scientific opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to intense sweeteners. EFSA 2011 Journal 9(6): 2229, and 9(4): 2076

ISA – Avenue de Tervueren 13A "" Bte 7, B–1040 Brussels, Belgium – Tel: +32 (0)2 736 53 54 – Fax: +32 (0)2 732 34 27
E–mail: [email protected] – Website: www.sweeteners.org – TVA BE 424.301.259


Saudi Falcons Club: Experts praise the impact of the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition as global breeders attend the fourth edition in Riyadh

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 30, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Falcon experts from breeding farms around the world have been singing the praises of this year's International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition just two days into the event.

Now in its fourth year, the exhibition is larger than ever with visitation expected to top 500,000 over the course of the event, which runs from 25th August – 3rd September. Over 350 exhibitors are in attendance and many have shared their delight at the impact the exhibition is having on the industry.

Held at the Saudi Falcons Club HQ at Malham, attendees are greeted by the vast auditorium packed with falconry stalls, memorabilia, technology, equipment, photographs and items detailing the rich history of falconry in Saudi Arabia, including a huge stand showing the important work the Saudi Falcons Club does to promote the art of falconry and also the conservation of birds of prey. Namely with its Hadad project that helps the conservation of both two migratory falcons – the Saker falcon and the Peregrine falcon, along with the two resident birds, the Barbary falcon and the Lanner falcon.

International falcon breeders have been showcasing their stunning birds, with farms being represented from around the world. Numerous breeders from Europe include the UK's Fox and Desert falcons, France's SB Falcons and Hura Falcons from Belgium. From further afield, Sullivan Mews are attending from USA while more locally Gulf Falcons are in attendance from Bahrain.

French Breeder Philippe Hertel from SB Falcons said: "It's my second participation at the exhibition and we are very proud and happy to have our farm here. For us it's very important to be a part of the event as the business in Saudi Arabia there is a lot of falconers so of course we should be here to present our birds. We specialize in racing and so we have very fast falcons, we have had some winners in the past, so it's important for the people here to see what we have to offer. The organization of the event is very good, from the shipping to the accommodation etc. It's the best in the world compared to other events.”

German Breeder Ulf Voss from Voss Falcons said: "It's the first time we are here, we are very happy to have been invited! We have 38 falcons with a great racing and hunting history. We try to bring the best racing falcons while making some great contacts for the future. We hope to increase our business with Saudi Arabia and so we are here getting our brand name out there to the people within the industry, it's the most important thing for us right now. Saudi Arabia is the place to be for falconry at the moment and so it's a really interesting market right now."

Belgian Breeder Giel Van Haecke from Hura Falcons said: "It is very well organized, and it's a great place for people to gather, connect and meet. You can't get any better for the breeder, it's a great place to sell birds and you need an event like this to make your name. Everyone is very friendly and there is a lot of different birds this year and when you breed quality there is no problem."

The exhibition has a special section dedicated solely to the history of falconry both in Saudi Arabia and around the world. This area is full of interactive exhibits in place to educate and inspire the next generation of falconers in the Middle East. Other areas include an art gallery, featuring Saudi artist Hila Alhmod who is displaying a stunning Peregrine falcon, which has been created by pyrography. There is also an impressive auction hall for the daily falcon auctions. Education is a huge theme this year and experts are giving daily talks on the art of falconry, and there's a big emphasis on encouraging the next generation of falconers through motivational speaking and children's learning areas.

Now in its fourth year, the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2022, has been welcoming visitors and exhibitors from over 30 participating countries, making it the biggest edition of the event thus far. The event, taking place in Riyadh, runs until 3rd September 2022.

Media Contact: Ahmad AlRefaie – +966 54 501 7470 – ahmad.alrefaie@xpotential–data.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0eaefc2d–f957–43a0–94c1–8429d510453f


Let’s take real action for obesity, together

BRUSSELS, Belgium, March 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With hundreds of million people around the world currently living with obesity, it is more important than ever to support World Obesity Day and the call for everyone to act now. Joining forces with obesity and health–related organisations around the world, the International Sweeteners Association (ISA) is proud to renew its support to this key awareness day.

Obesity remains a global problem, and it affects us all1:

  • 800 million people are living with obesity and millions more are at risk;
  • Childhood obesity is a major public health challenge too and is expected to increase by a further 60% over the next decade, reaching 250 million by 2030;
  • Obesity is the getaway to many diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers;
  • Importantly also, in the context of the pandemic the world has been facing for the past two years, people living with obesity are twice as likely to be hospitalised if tested positive for COVID–19.

Anne–Sophie Joly, President of CNAO2, the French association for people living with obesity, highlights that: "Although obesity affects a large part of the global population, today it is still widely unknown. Patients living with obesity need the support from everyone to aspire to a better future: better prevention, information and education around obesity for all."

Today, we know that the root causes of obesity are complex and multi–factorial, and as a consequence, the solutions are not straight–forward. Still, while no single act can fix the obesity crisis, creating a healthier food environment is a step forward.

Together, we can make a difference in obesity management
In line with this year's World Obesity Day theme, "Everybody needs to act" now, and together, to spread the word about obesity prevention and management. This is why for this year's campaign, the ISA is honoured to be partnering with renowned obesity and health–related organisations on the development of its digital campaign, whom include: CNAO and ADEXO3, respectively the French and the Portuguese associations for people living with obesity, as well as the Hellenic Medical Association for Obesity (HMAO). Our campaign has also received the valuable support from the Brazilian diabetes association4 (ANAD), the Brazilian Association of Diabetes Educators5 (ANBED), the Colombian Diabetology Federation6 (FDC), and the Brazilian Federation of Diabetes' Organisations7 (FENAD).

With all the above in mind, the ISA is proud to release its campaign for World Obesity Day 2022, which includes:

  • An animated and inspiring video that aims to help raise awareness on obesity facts and on the importance of providing and receiving the right support, as well as on the role of low/no calorie sweeteners in a healthier food environment. Watch our video below or by clicking here.
  • Exclusive interviews with our partners who tell us more about the importance of World Obesity Day and of ensuring better prevention, care and support for all. These insightful interviews are available as follows:
  • Sweet and healthy recipes: Low/no calorie sweeteners are food ingredients that taste sweet and are used in place of sugars in drinks, foods and recipes at home. They can help us adapt traditional recipes while still enjoying great–tasting, healthy meals with low or no sugars and fewer calories. Get inspired already with ISA sweet and healthy recipes with low/no calorie sweeteners, available below:

Everyone, all around the world, and in any body size, should have access and be able to enjoy healthy, safe and tasteful foods and meals to live healthier, happier and longer lives!

Engage in the conversation about World Obesity Day 2022 by using #ISA4WOD, #WorldObesityDay and #EverybodyNeedsToAct.

For more information on low/no calorie sweeteners, please visit http://www.sweeteners.org/ or contact the ISA Secretariat by reaching [email protected].

This press release is also available on ISA website here: https://www.sweeteners.org/lets–take–real–action–for–obesity–together/

1 https://www.worldobesityday.org/
2 Collectif National des Associations d'Obses
3 Associao de Doentes Obesos e Ex–obesos de Portugal
4 Associao Nacional de Ateno ao Diabetes
5 Associao Nacional Brasileira de Educadores em Diabetes
6 Federacin Diabetolgica Colombiana
7 Federao Nacional de Associaes e Entitades de Diabetes

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37a90081–1247–4f32–8c0a–1f31b9b7c15a


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8497331)

The Impact of Science to Create a Movement; the Case of Fooditive, Pioneer in Plant-Based Upcycled Ingredients

ROTTERDAM, June 02, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The challenging year 2020 saw the blossoming of plant–based ingredient manufacturer Fooditive BV, a Dutch company set on revolutionising healthy eating. Through upcycling third – grade and side–streams of fruit and vegetables into 100% natural products, it has created one of the keys to a more sustainable future. It all started with a Jordanian man and his hate for waste and want for change.

Having experienced scarce availability of food during his childhood in Jordan, founder and food scientist Moayad Abushokhedim vowed to create healthy and affordable food for all.

Packed with a strong food science and business background, he developed his own unique process of creating affordable plant–based ingredients, simply using the science of fermentation.

In recognition of his drive for success in the food and beverage industry, Abushokhedim was named as one of the Food100 2020, an award that celebrates changemakers who are working towards transitioning to a sustainable food system.

"For a Jordanian guy like me, who cannot believe he is living his dream of changing the world, receiving this award made me realise that if you can dream it, you can achieve it. And it reminded me that I am not alone in this endeavour because there are so many others in the world who believe in making a difference," said Moayad Abushokhedim.

Fooditive's first product, the game–changing zero–calorie sweetener made from apples and pears, was only just the beginning. Since launching the sweetener, the company has expanded its range of creative products, including a thickening agent made from banana skins, a carrot–based preservative, and an emulsifier made from potato extracts.

The innovation behind Fooditive's products and its dedication to delivering what consumers deserve have led to the company being nominated for the Foodvalley Champions 2020 award in the category Food & Health. The new collaboration with Frutco AG in Switzerland, which will use Fooditive's unique continuous fermentation process to produce a sweetener from banana side–streams, is the company's latest step towards making the world greener and more sustainable.

As pioneers of healthy eating, Fooditive's actions have also a–peel–ed to Gary Clarke, former general manager of Mars International Travel Retail. With more than 20 years of consumer packaged goods experience, Clarke felt that "as a next step, joining Fooditive as a partner seemed like such an obvious thing to do."

"When I learned about Fooditive's approach to developing a circular economy and producing foods that are better for you, I really thought they were leading the charge to evolve the food industry. I believe that Fooditive really can drive the industry to a new future for food. One that is not only good for people but also good for the planet, and should we be able to scale this idea then the difference can be enormous", added Clarke.

Fooditive is currently funding up to 6.5M for the year of 2021 to revolutionize the plant–based food business and create healthy and affordable food for everyone.

Later this year, the company will share its exciting new products, a healthy fat replacer from avocado seeds and a vegan milk formation from peas, so be sure to keep an eye out for Fooditive.

Now that it is backed by even more committed partners and equipped with un–pear–alleled competitively priced ingredients, the Fooditive fever is catching on and inspiring others along the way to think more about what they eat.

About Fooditive BV

In 2018, the plant–based ingredient manufacturer Fooditive BV was established in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The company is committed to making healthy food available for all with its 100% natural ingredients. Since its launch, Fooditive has received several awards for its innovative ideas, sustainable approaches, and contributions to a circular economy, including being nominated for the Index Award 2021.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e2b3b996–6320–474d–a1e0–5ee9f1081913

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5a7837dc–22d9–48cb–a57b–4c6606055081


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IFG Celebrates its 20th Anniversary

BAKERSFIELD, Calif., March 31, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IFG, the world's top fruit–breeding and licensing company widely recognized for inventing the Cotton Candy and Sweet Globe grapes, has reached an exciting milestone as the company celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. IFG is renowned worldwide for its innovative fruit–breeding programs that have changed the way consumers and retailers think and experience grapes and other fruits, and through the company's unique offerings of flavor–forward fruit varieties and its global IP licensing program, IFG has transformed the fruit breeding industry in the short span of just 20 years.

Today, IFG boasts 45 patented grape and sweet cherry varieties, and its network of licensed growers extends to all corners of the globe with 1,344 licensees in 15 different countries. Additionally, the company has grown to 55 staff members globally.

"At IFG, we have three primary assets: our trademarks, our varieties, and our people," said IFG CEO Andy Higgins. "Without each of those assets, we would not be the company we are today. As an organization that has Intellectual Property, we are committed to protecting our trademarks, our varieties, and of course, supporting our people in their every success and we are proud of the tremendous advances we've made to the fruit–breeding industry over the years. Our talented team has worked tirelessly to execute this ambitious vision, and to see it all come together is quite rewarding."

IFG was established in 2001 by several of the most prominent names in the California grape industry: Jack Pandol of Grapery, the Stoller family of Sunridge Nurseries Inc. and world–famous horticulturist and fruit breeder Dr. David Cain. Under the direction of Dr. Cain, who recently retired, IFG spent the past 20 years focusing on creating table grape and sweet cherry varieties to fill unmet grower and consumer demands and in the process developed a team of committed professionals who are passionate about protecting IFG's clients all around the world.

"We have accomplished a lot during our first 20 years and we are excited for our future as IFG is positioned to continue advancing the industry," continued Higgins. "We are engaged and committed. Dr. Chris Owens, our lead plant breeder, is bringing new and more advanced technology to create more intriguing and exciting selections. We have much more in the pipeline as we plan to lead while staying true to our mission. The past many years have provided us a strong and profound foundation for greater success."

ABOUT IFG
IFG, headquartered in Bakersfield, California and founded in 2001, is one of the world's largest premium fruit–breeding companies. Its breeders, Drs. David Cain and Chris Owens develop new varieties of table grapes and cherries, which are patented and licensed to worldwide marketers and growers. IFG currently has licensees in 15 countries and its fruit is actively marketed in over 30 countries. For more information, visit www.ifg.world.

Media Contact:
Olivia Riley
Bastion Elevate
[email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8209172)

IFG Ends Successful IP Infringement Case in South Africa

BAKERSFIELD, Calif., Feb. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — INTERNATIONAL FRUIT GENETICS LLC (IFG) After several years of sometimes acrimonious lawsuits, IFG has finally come to the end of infringement proceedings in which it sought to protect its proprietary grape varietals in the Western Cape, South Africa.

During 2010, IFG concluded a suite of licensing, planting, and marketing agreements with a table grape grower in Paarl, South Africa, as well as other associated farming entities. In terms of the agreements, the grower was licensed to plant, grow and market several IFG grape varieties in South Africa, which was done successfully over several years. However, during an inspection, IFG determined that this grower had unlawfully propagated some of the varietals beyond license limits and was growing and propagating an IFG varietal before protection for the variety was granted in South Africa. Upon further investigation, IFG determined that the grower had stolen a slip of the varietal from one of the IFG founder's vineyards in California while visiting and had transported it to South Africa, where it was grafted, propagated, and commercially grown.

Due to the growers' unlawful conduct, IFG canceled all of the agreements it had with the licensee and asked that the grower to cease all use of IFG's proprietary plant material and destroy all IFG proprietary plant material by cutting off all vines below the graft union. Unfortunately, the grower refused to do so, forcing IFG to take more drastic measures, including the freezing of bank accounts and contempt of court proceedings for failure to comply with the court's orders.

Ultimately, when it became clear to the grower that IFG was taking the necessary steps required to protect their intellectual property, the grower agreed and complied by cutting the vines below the graft union on all IFG varietals.

This case marks a stunning success for IFG and for all owners of plant breeders' rights, which are an extremely valuable form of intellectual property. Respect of these rights allows breeders globally to make the continued investments, ensuring that the table grape industry has a bright and vibrant future.

"It was a long road, and we are glad to come to the end of it, but we have no regrets," said Andy Higgins, CEO of IFG. "Our intellectual property rights are the heart of our business, and we need to protect them. We will not hesitate to take similar action in other parts of the world should there be a need to do so."

For more information, visit www.ifg.world

Media Contact:

Olivia Riley
Bastion Elevate
949–522–0549
[email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 8149504)

Biotalys Submits First Protein-Based Biocontrol Registration Package to the EPA

GHENT, Belgium and RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Jan. 21, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Biotalys NV, a transformative food and crop protection company, announces that it has submitted its first protein–based biocontrol, Evoca, to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States for approval. Pending EPA registration, this biocontrol will offer U.S. fruit and vegetable growers a new way to combat major diseases to maximize yields and extend the shelf life after harvest of produce with substantially lower residues.

"Biotalys is thrilled to have begun the EPA registration process for its first product. While Evoca targets diseases like Botrytis cinerea and powdery mildew, we are leveraging the flexibility of our technology platform to advance a broad pipeline of products with new modes of action that will safely and reliably address key crop pests and diseases across the food value chain," commented Luc Maertens, COO of Biotalys.

Evoca will help growers effectively control key pathogens in the field, as well as in the food value chain to protect fruits and vegetables post harvest, extending shelf life and reducing decay and food loss. With its new mode of action and favourable safety profile, Evoca provides growers with additional rotational options to manage resistance in a more sustainable way.

The submission follows Biotalys' successful completion of an extensive field product development program and regulatory studies on Evoca. More than 200 field and greenhouse trials globally demonstrated high consistency in effective control of key pathogens in fruit and vegetables crops. With this submission and pending regulatory approvals, Biotalys is on track to introduce Evoca to select regions in the U.S. market in late 2022.

Biotalys will proceed with international registrations on its own, maintaining full ownership of all rights. Aligned with the go–to–market strategy for Evoca, the submission in the United States will be followed by a submission in the European Union. Major agricultural markets in Latin America and Asia are in scope for future registrations.

Evoca: Pending Registration. This product is not currently registered for sale or use in the United States and is not being offered for sale.

About Biotalys

Biotalys is a rapidly growing and transformative food and crop protection company developing a new generation of protein–based biocontrol solutions, shaping the future of sustainable and safe food supply. Based on its groundbreaking technology platform, Biotalys has developed a broad pipeline of effective and safe candidate products that aim to address key crop pests and diseases across the whole value chain, from soil to plate. Combining the high–performance characteristics and consistency of chemicals with the clean safety profile of biologicals, Biotalys goal is to provide ideal crop protection agents for both pre– and post–harvest applications. Based in the biotech cluster in Ghent, Belgium, Biotalys was founded in 2013 as a spin–off from the VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology) and has raised 61 million ($66m USD) to date from specialist international investors. More information can be found on www.biotalys.com.

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