Critic of Artificial Sweeteners Pilloried By Industry-Backed Scientists

"Susan Swithers is no stranger to food industry criticism.

In fact, the Purdue University professor anticipates a swift public relations blitz from trade groups representing diet- and low-calorie food companies every time she publishes a study about the health effects of artificial sweeteners.

'They reflexively put out a press release that spins it as, ‘Here’s what’s wrong with the study,’' says Swithers, a professor of behavioral neuroscience who has been researching artificial sweeteners for the past decade. 'I’m sure I’m on somebody’s Google Alert at this point.'"

Chris Young reports for the Center for Public Integrity August 6, 2014.