thaumatin

Basic Information

Field	Content
Chinese name	thaumatin
English name	thaumatin
INS/E number	INS 957
Functional class	Flavour enhancer, Sweetener
Year adopted	1982
Approved by	Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it?

Thaumatin is a natural protein high-intensity sweetener extracted from the fruit of the West African katemfe plant (Thaumatococcus daniellii), about 2000–3000 times sweeter than sucrose, with a liquorice-like cooling aftertaste.

Source

Natural：竹芋（Thaumatococcus daniellii）果实

Why is it used?

• Provides extremely high-intensity natural sweetness and flavour enhancement
• Blends with synthetic sweeteners to mask aftertaste
• Enhances minty and fruity flavour notes
• Non-glycaemic and non-cariogenic
• Acts as a flavour modifier reducing salty/bitter notes

Common Foods

• Sugar-free beverages
• Chewing gum
• Confectionery
• Dairy and yoghurt
• Flavour sauces
• Table-top sweeteners

Safety

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns：

• 属于蛋白质，极少数过敏人群需注意
• 高甜度需精确计量
• 对苯丙酮尿症者本身无风险但复配须留意

Usage Standard

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 1886.321 食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂 索马甜

International：

• EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 957)
• FDA 21 CFR 172.510 (flavouring/advisory)
• Codex GSFA (INS 957)
• FSANZ Food Standards Code (957)
• JECFA Monograph (Thaumatin)

In a nutshell

Thaumatin is a natural protein high-intensity sweetener from West African katemfe fruit; safe and useful as a flavour modifier.

Consumer Advice

Thaumatin is a natural protein sweetener extracted from the fruit of the West African katemfe plant. It is about 2000 times sweeter than sugar and also enhances flavors and masks off-notes, so it is used in gum, drinks, and desserts. It is safe within approved limits; however, because it is a protein, a very small number of allergic individuals may react, and anyone allergic to the katemfe fruit should avoid it.

Dietary Restrictions

• Vegan: ✅
• Halal: ✅
• Kosher: ✅

Allergens

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.