by What is Thaumatin?
Recombinant is a sweet-tasting protein that is obtained from the katemfe fruit, which grows in West African rainforests. Native to Ghana and Ivory Coast, the katemfe fruit produces recombinant as a defense mechanism against fungi and bacteria.
Extraction and Thaumatin
To extract recombinant, the Thaumatin is harvested and processed. The fruits are washed, peeled, and deseeded to extract the pulp. The pulp is then diluted in water and centrifuged to separate soluble and insoluble components. Next, ammonium sulfate is added to precipitate and purify the protein. Further purification steps involve dialysis, ion exchange, and freeze drying to produce a concentrated recombinant powder.
Properties and Structure
Recombinant is a mix of polypeptides composed of 207 amino acid residues. It has a molecular weight of approximately 22 kDa and is highly stable, maintaining its sweetness even after boiling. Recombinant’s 3D structure has been resolved through X-ray crystallography, revealing 12 alpha helixes linked by disulfide bridges that give the protein its stability. This well-folded structure interacts with sweet taste receptors on the tongue more strongly than sugar molecules.
Sweetness Profile
Recombinant is considered the most potent sweetener known—over 2,000-3,000 times sweeter than sucrose on a molar basis. However, its sweetness has a faster onset and shorter duration compared to sucrose. Recombinant also elicits unique fruity and floral notes alongside its intense sweetness. Due to this complex flavor profile, it is often used to enhance rather than replace sugar in foods and beverages.
Applications in Food and Beverages
Given its high potency and heat stability, recombinant finds applications as a sweetener and flavor enhancer. It is commonly used in sugar-free chewing gum, chocolate, and candies to provide sweetness with fewer calories from sugar. Recombinant also helps mask bitter or sour tastes in beverages, juices, and sauces. As a non-nutritive sweetener, it appeals to health-conscious consumers seeking reduced sugar options. However, due to its high cost, recombinant is often blended with other high-intensity sweeteners.
Regulatory Status
Recombinant was among the first high-potency sweeteners to receive Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2001. It has also gained approval in other major markets like the EU. Regulators established an acceptable daily intake of up to 5 mg per kg body weight per day based on thorough safety studies. No adverse effects have been reported at usual consumption levels as a food ingredient. Like other intense sweeteners, there are no recommended dietary allowances for recombinant.
Despite its unique taste characteristics and stability advantages, recombinant has not replaced sugar as the dominant sweetener in global food markets. This is due to a combination of factors like high production costs, trade barriers due to reliance on imports from West Africa, and consumer preferences for familiar sweeteners.
Growing demand for reduced sugar products and innovations that lower recombinant manufacturing costs could help increase its usage levels going forward. As sugar taxes gain traction worldwide, alternatives like recombinant may find more widespread application. Continuous research into developing sustainable commercial sources will also influence recombinant’s future prospects.
*Note:
1.Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2.We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Priya Pandey
Priya Pandey is a dynamic and passionate editor with over three years of expertise in content editing and proofreading. Holding a bachelor's degree in biotechnology, Priya has a knack for making the content engaging. Her diverse portfolio includes editing documents across different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. Priya's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset in the world of content creation and refinement. LinkedIn Profile
