E957 – Thaumatin

Thaumatin, designated as E957, is a natural sweetener and flavor modifier derived from the arils of the West African plant Thaumatococcus daniellii. It is a protein known for its intense sweetness, approximately 2,000 to 3,000 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar), and is utilized in various food and beverage products. 

Danger Level: 1 – Mostly Safe

Purpose in Products

  • Sweetener: Due to its high sweetness intensity, thaumatin is used in minimal quantities to provide sweetness in sugar-free and low-calorie products.
  • Flavor Enhancer: Thaumatin can modify and enhance flavors, often masking bitterness and improving overall taste profiles in products such as chewing gum, dairy products, and beverages.

Health Considerations

  • Digestibility: As a protein, thaumatin is digestible and broken down into amino acids by the human digestive system. 
  • Allergenicity: Current data do not indicate significant allergenic potential; however, individuals with specific protein allergies should exercise caution. 
  • Regulatory Status: Thaumatin is approved for use as a food additive in the European Union and other regions. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated its safety and concluded that there is no need for a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI) for thaumatin, indicating its safety at current usage levels. 

Impact on Children

There is no specific evidence suggesting that thaumatin poses additional risks to children when consumed within established usage levels. As with all food additives, monitoring intake, especially in children, is advisable to ensure consumption remains within recommended limits.

Impact on Taste

Thaumatin provides a lingering sweet taste and is effective in enhancing flavors. Its ability to mask bitterness and improve palatability makes it a valuable additive in various formulations.

Compatibility with Other Additives

Thaumatin is often used in combination with other sweeteners and flavorings to achieve desired taste profiles. Its stability under heat and acidic conditions allows for versatility in different food processing methods.

Natural Occurrence

Thaumatin is naturally occurring in the fruit of the Thaumatococcus daniellii plant, commonly found in West Africa. It is extracted through aqueous methods to obtain the sweet-tasting proteins, thaumatin I and thaumatin II. 

Alternatives and Substitutes

Other natural and artificial sweeteners used as alternatives to thaumatin include:

  • Steviol Glycosides (E960): Natural sweeteners derived from the stevia plant, about 200–300 times sweeter than sucrose.
  • Neohesperidine Dihydrochalcone (E959): A sweetener derived from bitter oranges, approximately 1,000 times sweeter than sucrose.

Regulation

Thaumatin (E957) is approved for use as a food additive in the European Union and other regions. Its application as a sweetener and flavor enhancer is considered safe, provided it is used in accordance with good manufacturing practices. 

Conclusion

E957 (Thaumatin) serves as an effective natural sweetener and flavor enhancer in various food and beverage products. Its high sweetness intensity and ability to modify flavors make it valuable in product formulations. When used within regulated limits, it is considered safe for consumption, as it is digestible and does not pose significant health risks. As with all food additives, adherence to regulatory guidelines ensures consumer safety.