What is E957?
E957 is Thaumatin — a protein extracted from the katemfe fruit, used as a artificial & intense sweetener to help sweeten foods with fewer or zero calories than sugar.
What is E957 (Thaumatin)?
E957 is the E-number for thaumatin, one of the artificial & intense sweeteners group of food additives (E900–E999). Additives in this group sweeten foods with fewer or zero calories than sugar. A protein extracted from the katemfe fruit. Like every E-number, E957 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E957 in detail below.
Where is E957 found?
E957 is typically used in diet soft drinks, sugar-free gum, desserts, yoghurts and low-calorie foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E957) or by its full name, thaumatin. Common foods that may contain E957 include:
- Diet soft drinks
- Sugar-free gum
- Desserts
- Yoghurts and low-calorie foods
Full guide: foods containing E957 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E957 safe?
E957 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E957.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E957 vegan?
E957 is vegan. A protein extracted from the katemfe fruit, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E957 →Is E957 halal?
E957 is halal. A protein extracted from the katemfe fruit, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E957 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E957 in food?
E957 is Thaumatin — a protein extracted from the katemfe fruit, used as a artificial & intense sweetener to help sweeten foods with fewer or zero calories than sugar.
Is E957 safe to eat?
Yes. E957 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E957 vegan?
E957 is vegan. A protein extracted from the katemfe fruit, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E957 halal?
E957 is halal. A protein extracted from the katemfe fruit, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).