The World Health Organization (WHO) published a new Guideline on the use of non-sugar sweeteners on May 15, 2023, in which it discourages their use for weight control or reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The recommendation is based on findings from a systematic review of available evidence, which suggests that the use of these sweeteners does not provide any long-term benefit in reducing body fat in adults or children. The review's results also suggest that there may be potential adverse effects from their long-term use, such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in adults.

The Guideline provides evidence-based recommendations free from conflicts of interest, clearly outlining its scope and the population sectors to which it refers. However, it has generated reactions from various stakeholders, including academics, social groups, and the industry. Different interpretations of the WHO Guideline have been published, sometimes with conflicts of interest, discrediting it and creating uncertainty among the population.

For this reason, it is necessary for national and international health authorities to create a space for dialogue to exchange views on this matter, involving various stakeholders connected to and/or interested in defining public policies based on scientific evidence. This forum should allow for the interpretation and clear communication of messages to the population, which is exposed daily to the consumption of food products containing different types of sweeteners.

In the effort to create conditions that enable people to make consumption decisions that protect their health, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) office in Uruguay, along with the Ministry of Public Health, the School of Nutrition at the University of the Republic, the Association of Dietitians and Nutritionists, and the NCD Alliance Uruguay, is organizing this colloquium to be held on Thursday, September 14, starting at 9:00 AM at the School of Nutrition.

Proposal Format:
• Date: Thursday, September 14
• Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• Format: In-person (without prior registration) and virtual (YouTube channel of the School of Nutrition)

• Desarrollo de la jornada:
o Apertura:
Escuela de Nutrición (recibimiento)
OPS (importancia del tema para la agenda de salud)
Alianza ENT (cómo se genera esta instancia)
o Expositores/as:
1. Dr. Fabio Gomez (Organización Panamericana de la Salud)
2. Mag. Carolina Menoni (Dpto. Alimentos – Escuela de Nutrición)
3. Dra. Estela Skapino (Dpto. Nutrición Clínica – Escuela de Nutrición)
4. Lic. Virginia Natero (Ministerio Salud Pública)
5. Dr. Gastón Ares (Núcleo Interdisciplinario Alimentación y Bienestar – UdelaR)
o Moderador: Mag. Diego Rodriguez Sendoya (Alianza ENT)