Thaumatin in Beverages: 6 Practical Formulation Tips for R&D Teams

Thaumatin – the ultra-intense natural protein sweetener (2,000–3,000× sweeter than sugar) from the West African katemfe fruit – has become a go-to ingredient for sugar-reduced and zero-calorie beverages. Its clean taste, excellent bitterness-masking ability and clean-label status make it perfect for sports drinks, functional waters, RTD teas, and low-calorie sodas.

Here are 6 battle-tested tips from our R&D support team at Asia Bio-Pharmaceutical Research Institute to help you formulate faster and more successfully.

Use Extremely Low Dosages

Effective sweetness is usually achieved at 0.5–3 ppm. Start at 1 ppm and adjust with sensory panels.

Blend for Better Mouthfeel

Combine thaumatin with stevia, monk fruit or erythritol (typical ratio 1:10 to 1:50) to eliminate lingering sweetness and mimic sucrose profile.

Pre-dissolve Properly

Dissolve thaumatin in warm water (40–50 °C) before adding to the batch to prevent clumping, especially in acidic systems (pH < 4).

Mask Bitterness Like a Pro

Perfect for caffeine, green tea extract, BCAAs, hemp/CBD and botanical beverages – thaumatin reduces perceived bitterness by up to 70 % at trace levels.

Maintain Clarity & Stability

In clear beverages, add 0.01–0.05 % gum arabic or pectin if slight haze appears at low pH. Thaumatin is stable during HTST and UHT processing.

Check Regulatory Status in Your Market

USA: GRAS
EU/UK: E957
China/Australia/Japan: approved as natural flavour enhancer/sweetener
Always request CoA and allergen statements from your supplier.

Ready to launch your next sugar-reduced beverage?

Bolise Co., Ltd. supplies food-grade thaumatin with 98 %+ purity, full documentation and formulation support.
→ Request free samples & technical datasheet today:
https://www.aushealthingredients.com/contact.html
One of our sweetener specialists will get back to you within 24 hours.
Sweet success starts with the right thaumatin partner – let’s make your next beverage irresistible.