Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, has made it clear that Diet Coke is still his favorite beverage, despite concerns about its artificial sweetener aspartame. Musk recently responded to a tweet featuring a picture of a burger and a Diet Coke by proclaiming, DC is still my favorite drink.
Musk’s fondness for Diet Coke is no secret. In 2022, he took to Twitter to express his love for the beverage, particularly when paired with salt and butter popcorn at movie theaters. He even shared a picture on the platform showcasing four Diet Coke cans, a traditional gun, and a revolver on his bedside table.
However, aspartame, the artificial sweetener used in Diet Coke, has been the subject of controversy. The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently classified aspartame as a possible carcinogen. This classification was based on limited evidence, and other health organizations have not supported this declaration. The Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), for example, stated that there was no reason to change their guidance and even recommended a safe consumption limit of up to 14 cans of diet drink per day.
Furthermore, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed aspartame safe for consumption, clarifying that the new labeling does not imply a direct link to cancer. Numerous countries, including Canada and Saudi Arabia, have also approved the use of aspartame at current permitted levels.
Despite the controversy, Musk remains loyal to his favorite beverage. While health officials may have concerns, it is worth noting that the evidence linking aspartame to cancer is limited, and regulatory bodies continue to deem its use safe.
In conclusion, Elon Musk’s love for Diet Coke persists, even amid the controversy surrounding aspartame. While health organizations may have varying opinions on the artificial sweetener’s safety, Musk stands by his favorite drink. As consumers, it is essential to make informed decisions regarding our beverage choices based on reliable scientific evidence and personal preferences.
