India, April 4 -- Young children should not consume drinks containing artificial sweeteners, according to a major new review by the UK's Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition.
The government-backed committee warns that early exposure to sweetened beverages whether with sugar or non-sugar sweeteners can shape long-term taste preferences, increasing the likelihood of excessive sweetness cravings later in life.
The SACN's recommendations follow a 2023 report by the World Health Organization, which raised concerns about potential links between high NSS consumption and increased risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
In its latest findings, SACN echoed those concerns, emphasizing that preschool children should primarily con...