The Benefits of Thaumatin

Thaumatin, a natural sweetener derived from the West African katemfe plant, is a low-calorie, sugar-free, intensely sweet protein used widely in food and beverage industries as a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners, offering significant health benefits and aligning with sustainable practices.

Thaumatin (Katemfe Extract)

Thaumatin is a natural sweetener derived from the fruit of the West African Katemfe plant (Thaumatococcus Daniellii). Thaumatin is known for being a group of intensely sweet proteins, approximately 2000 to 3000 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). Despite its high sweetness, it maintains a clean, neutral taste with no bitter aftertaste. Thaumatin is widely used in the food and beverage industry as a sweetening agent and flavour enhancer. It is often included in low-calorie and sugar-free products as a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners. Thaumatin has been approved for use in various countries, including the United States and the European Union, as a food additive. In the EU, it is known by its E number, E957, indicating its approval as a food additive.

What is thaumatin?

Thaumatin, a natural sweetener and flavour enhancer. Its allure lies in its remarkable ability to deliver sweetness without the caloric load, owing to its protein-based nature. Surpassing sucrose in sweetness, it's estimated to be between 1000 and 3000 times sweeter. This sweetness arises from its interaction with the human TAS1R3 receptor, a phenomenon exclusive to old world primates, including humans, rendering it uniquely perceptible to this select group. It was first noticed by British Surgeon. W.F Daniell, in West Africa in 1840 who found the native people had been using Katemfe Fruit for hundreds of years to sweeten food sources such as corn breads, sour fruits and also to make palm wine.

Where Does Thaumatin Come From?

Thaumatin is derived from the fruit of the West African katemfe plant, scientifically known as Thaumatococcus daniellii. This plant produces a protein that is intensely sweet, which is extracted and purified to obtain thaumatin.

What are the Benefits of Thaumatin?

Thaumatin's intense sweetness enables the use of minimal uantities to achieve desired sweetness levels in products. Consequently, it boasts an impressively low calorie count, making it a prime choice for individuals looking to trim down or manage their weight. Furthermore, being entirely sugar-free, it's a boon for sugar-conscious consumers, especially those managing conditions like diabetes or adhering to low-carb diets. Adding to its allure, thaumatin hails entirely from an African plant, aligning perfectly with the preferences of those seeking natural alternatives, whether for allergy concerns, gut health, or specific dietary needs.

How to Use Thaumatin as a Sweetener?

Thaumatin can be used in a variety of applications due to its intense sweetness. For those looking to replace artificial sweeteners, thaumatin offers a natural alternative that is low-calorie and sugar-free. It's particularly beneficial in products like low-calorie drinks, sugar-free supplements, and other food and beverage products.

While artificial sweeteners like Sucralose have long been popular, thaumatin offers a natural alternative without the negative effects associated with chemical sweeteners. Its low-calorie nature makes it an ideal choice for weight management and diabetes management, without the risk of a sugar crash or weight gain from sugar.

Thaumatin's Role in Health

Thaumatin's role in health benefits is significant. It provides a natural sugar substitute that is beneficial for those with allergy concerns, gut health issues, or specific dietary needs. It is particularly useful for individuals on low-carb diets, or those managing diabetes due to its sugar-free nature and low glycemic index.

Why Does Hercules supplements use thaumatin?

At Hercules Supplements, we've always been about accessibility and quality. While Sucralose has long been the go-to sweetener for its affordability and widespread availability, we've chosen to raise the bar. Enter thaumatin, a natural sweetener celebrated for its low-calorie, sugar-free composition.

By making this switch, we're ensuring that everyone can enjoy our products without compromise. With thaumatin leading the way, we're actively exploring other natural enhancements, from colours to additives, to further elevate the standard of our supplements. Currently, our Liquid Series Ignite and Sleep products lead the charge with thaumatin sweetness, paving the way for our entire range to follow suit. Ready to experience our exceptional, sugar-free supplements? you can browse our range below!