sweetener INS 957

Thaumatin E957

natural protein — Primarily natural.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Thaumatin proteins I and II

CAS: 53850-34-3

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

What Is Thaumatin?

Thaumatin is a natural protein extracted from the katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii) native to West African rainforests. At approximately 2,000-3,000 times the sweetness of sucrose by weight, it is one of the most intensely sweet substances known. Unlike chemical sweeteners, it is a protein and provides 4 kcal/g — but the amounts used are so small that caloric contribution is negligible. It has a distinctive sweet taste that lingers and can enhance fruit and mint flavors. JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety. Approved in EU, Japan, and some other jurisdictions.

? Did You Know?

Thaumatin occurs naturally in katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Thaumatin is also used in medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by food category (0.5-50 mg/kg) mg/kg

Used as sweetener and flavor enhancer

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS (as flavor enhancer)

Approved as GRAS flavor enhancer, not specifically as sweetener

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Natural additive status

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified (acceptable for use quantum satis)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

A natural sweet protein extracted from the katemfe fruit of West Africa. About 2,000-3,000 times sweeter than sucrose. Has a slow onset but long-lasting sweetness with licorice-like aftertaste.

katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii)

Manufacturing

Method: extraction from fruit

Extracted from the arils of katemfe fruit native to West African rainforests. Can also be produced through recombinant DNA technology using yeast or bacteria.

Applications Beyond Food

Medical

Taste-masking agent for bitter drugs

Industrial

Flavor enhancer and modifier

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thaumatin (E957)?

Thaumatin (E957) is a sweetener used in food products. It is natural protein and natural. A natural sweet protein extracted from the katemfe fruit of West Africa. About 2,000-3,000 times sweeter than sucrose. Has a slow onset but long-lasting sweetness with licorice-like aftertaste.

Where is Thaumatin found naturally?

Thaumatin is naturally found in katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii). A natural sweet protein extracted from the katemfe fruit of West Africa. About 2,000-3,000 times sweeter than sucrose. Has a slow onset but long-lasting sweetness with licorice-like aftertaste.

What is the ADI for Thaumatin?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Thaumatin is not specified (acceptable for use quantum satis) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Thaumatin?

Thaumatin is used in various food categories including Flavored drinks, Confectionery. It is used as a sweetener in these products.

Is Thaumatin the same as Talin?

Yes, Thaumatin is also known as Talin, Katemfe fruit protein. These are different names for the same substance.