EFSA approves Thaumatin for all animal species
27 Sep 2011
Following a request from the European Commission, the Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety for the target animals, consumers of animal products, users and the environment and the efficacy of the natural sweetener thaumatin for all animal species. The thaumatins are a mixture of proteins first isolated from the katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii Benth) of West Africa.
Commercial extraction of thaumatin from the fruit began in the 1970s and the sequencing of the two principal proteins found in thaumatin (thaumatin I and thaumatin II) was completed in 1990. It has been previously assessed for safety for consumers by both JECFA and the Scientific Committee for Food, neither body proposing an ADI. It is currently authorised for use as a sweetener or flavour enhancer in the European Union and in many other countries.
Figure. Katemfe fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii Benth) from West Africa, and the 3D structure of Thaumatin I, one of thaumatins present in this fruit
Thaumatin at a recommended use range of 1 to 5 mg/kg complete feed is safe for all animal species with a considerable margin of safety. Consequently, thaumatin can be administered simultaneously via feed or water for drinking. Thaumatins are highly digestible proteins and no residues in edible tissues/ products are expected. Consequently there are no concerns for the consumer safety.
The MSDS provided by the manufacturer identifies as potential hazards irritation to the eyes and sensitisation following inhalation. Sensitisation and irritation to the skin are not addressed. The precautions for handling the product proposed by the manufacturer (respiratory, hand, eye and skin protection) are considered sufficient to ensure user safety.
Thaumatins occur in nature, albeit with a narrow distribution, amongst plant species. Its use in animal nutrition is not expected to affect the environment since it is not excreted as such due to its essentially complete digestion.
Thaumatin is used in food as a sweetener/flavour modifier. Since its function in feed is essentially the same as that in food, no further demonstration of efficacy is considered necessary.
