E957 Thaumatin – Natural Sweetener & Food Additive
E957 is the EU designation for thaumatin, a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer derived from the katemfe fruit. It is up to 2000 times sweeter than sugar.
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E957 is the EU designation for thaumatin, a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer derived from the katemfe fruit. It is up to 2000 times sweeter than sugar.
What is E957 (Thaumatin)?
E957 is the European Union code for thaumatin, a naturally occurring protein extracted from the seeds of the West African katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii). It is used in the food industry as both a sweetener and a flavor enhancer. Thaumatin is considered one of the sweetest naturally occurring substances known – it is approximately 1600 to 2000 times sweeter than table sugar (sucrose), depending on concentration.
Origin and Production
Thaumatin is extracted from the arils (seed coverings) of the katemfe fruit, which grows in the tropical rainforests of West Africa. The protein consists of two main isoforms, thaumatin I and thaumatin II, both of which contribute to its intense sweetness. It is obtained through aqueous extraction followed by purification steps.
Use in Food Products
E957 is used in a wide range of food products and beverages, including:
- Chewing gum and confectionery
- Soft drinks and flavored waters
- Dessert preparations and ice cream
- Dietary supplements and vitamin products
- Oral care products such as toothpaste and mouthwash
Due to its extremely high sweetness intensity, thaumatin is needed only in very small quantities. In addition to sweetening, it enhances the overall flavor profile of products and can mask the bitter or metallic aftertaste of other sweeteners.
Mechanism of Action
Thaumatin exerts its sweetening effect by binding to specific sweet taste receptors (T1R2/T1R3) on the tongue. Compared to other sweeteners, the sweet sensation is slightly delayed in onset but longer lasting. This prolonged, mildly licorice-like aftertaste is a characteristic feature of thaumatin.
Safety and Regulatory Status
Thaumatin is approved as a food additive in the European Union under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. As a protein, it is digested in the body like other dietary proteins and contributes a negligible number of calories. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has classified thaumatin as safe for consumption. No Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) value has been established, as no safety concerns were identified. Allergic reactions are theoretically possible but have rarely been reported in practice.
Advantages Over Other Sweeteners
- Natural origin: Unlike many synthetic sweeteners, thaumatin is derived from a natural plant source.
- Essentially calorie-free: Due to the extremely small amounts required, it contributes virtually no calories.
- No effect on blood sugar: It is suitable for people with diabetes as it does not raise blood glucose levels.
- Flavor enhancement: It acts as a flavor enhancer and can reduce bitterness or unpleasant notes from other ingredients.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of thaumatin (E 957) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2015.
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives.
- Van der Wel H., Loeve K.: Isolation and characterization of thaumatin I and II, the sweet-tasting proteins from Thaumatococcus daniellii. European Journal of Biochemistry, 1972.
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