ATLANTA (July 25, 2007) — A recent observational study reported in the journal Circulation (“Soft Drink Consumption and Risk of Developing Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and the Metabolic Syndrome in Middle-Aged Adults”) needs to be considered in the proper scientific context, especially in relation to other previously published research that has reached the opposite conclusion. The study inCirculation alleges an increased risk of metabolic syndrome (which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes) for those who consume diet soda. However, this conclusion does not reflect the extensive scientific literature confirming the safety and benefits of low-calorie sweeteners and the products that contain them. The following outlines significant concerns with the study.