Thaumatin is a natural sweetener derived from the fruit of the plant "Thaumatococcus daniellii," which grows in West Africa. Thaumatin is known to be 2,000 to 3,000 times sweeter than sugar. It is used as a sweetener and flavor enhancer in various foods and beverages and is popular as an alternative to synthetic sweeteners due to its natural origin. Its intense sweetness allows only a small amount to be used to achieve the desired flavor in foods and beverages.