E957, commonly known as thaumatin, is a natural protein sweetener derived from the fruit of the West African katemfe plant (Thaumatococcus daniellii). Thaumatin is popular as a food additive due to its intense sweetness and unique taste, making it a valuable ingredient in a variety of food and beverage products.
Performance and Yield:
- Intense sweetness: Thaumatin is approximately 2,000 to 3,000 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar) by weight, making it one of the most potent natural sweeteners known.
- Protein structure: Thaumatin is a mixture of proteins called thaumatin I and II, which is heat stable and easily soluble in water. These proteins interact with taste receptors on the tongue to enhance the perception of sweetness.
- Extraction: Thaumatin is extracted from the pulp surrounding the seeds of the katemfe fruit. The process involves crushing the fruit and then extracting and purifying the thaumatin using methods such as filtration and chromatography.
application:
- Food and Beverage Industry: Thaumatin is widely used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer in a variety of food and beverage products, including soft drinks, confectionery, dairy products, baked goods and sauces.
- Mixed with other sweeteners: Thaumatin is often mixed with other sweeteners, such as sucralose or stevia, to lower the overall sweetness level while maintaining taste and flavor balance.
- Natural and clean label: As a naturally derived sweetener, thaumatin is favored by consumers looking for natural and clean label ingredients in food and beverage products.
Advantages and Considerations:
- Calorie content: Thaumatin has low calories and is suitable for use in low-calorie and low-sugar products.
- Thermal Stability: Thaumatin maintains its sweetness and stability even at high temperatures, making it suitable for use in cooking and baking applications.
- Allergenic Potential: While thaumatin is generally considered safe for consumption, individuals allergic to the protein from the catmuphy plant should exercise caution.
- Regulatory Status: Thaumatin is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including the United States (designated GRAS, or Generally Recognized as Safe) and the European Union.
in conclusion:
Thaumatin is a unique natural sweetener prized for its intense sweetness, clean flavor, and versatility in food and beverage applications. As consumer demand for natural and low-calorie sweeteners continues to grow, thaumatin is expected to play an increasingly important role in the food industry as a viable alternative to traditional sweeteners. However, further research into its safety and potential health effects is necessary to ensure its continued use as a safe and effective food additive.
