Former director sues American Diabetes Association, alleging 'pay-to-play' scheme with Splenda

A former director of nutrition for the American Diabetes Association sued the non-profit organization on Wednesday, accusing it of firing her for objecting to what she called a 'pay to play' scheme to promote the no-calorie sweetener Splenda.

Elizabeth Hanna said the ADA 'sold the good name of the organization' to sponsors like Splenda maker Heartland Food Products Group, 'in violation of its own guidelines and standards of care on nutrition,' in a lawsuit filed in state court in Bergen County, New Jersey.

Hanna specifically accused ADA Vice President Nicole Johnson of engaging in an 'intentional and targeted campaign' of retaliation.

A spokesperson for the ADA said in an email that the organization and Ms. Johnson deny all allegations put forth by Ms. Hanna.

A Heartland spokesperson called the allegation that it was involved in a scheme 'false and offensive.'

The ADA describes its mission as educating the public about diabetes and lists several corporate sponsors, including Splenda, on its website.

Hanna, a registered dietitian nutritionist, said she refused to approve the endorsement of several recipes containing Splenda, as they did not align with ADA nutrition guidelines.

She accused Johnson of pressuring her to approve the recipes despite her objections and complained to the ADA's human resources department about this issue.

Hanna's complaint cited recent studies suggesting that artificial sweeteners may have health risks, including cancer, elevated blood sugar, and diabetes.

She was subsequently fired in October, and she is now suing the ADA for violating New Jersey law protecting employees from retaliation and seeking unspecified money damages.