Scientific Opinion on the Safety and Efficacy of thaumatin for all animal species

Thaumatins are a mixture of proteins first isolated from the katemfe fruit ( Thaumatococcus daniellii Benth) of West Africa. The two principal proteins found in thaumatin (thaumatin I and II) have been sequenced. Thaumatin has previously been 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 and flavour enhancer in the European Union. 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. With respect to this margin of safety 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 as it is not excreted 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.