A team of researchers have developed a new protein-based sweetener which could provide a healthier alternative to sugar. The sweetener’s key ingredient is called Brazzein. Due to the damage that sugar can cause to both oral and physical health, developing a healthier alternative is highly desirable for researchers. The team have called the sweetener X3.
One of the most damaging things for our teeth is sugar. Sugar causes tooth decay, resulting in cavities developing. It can also cause cardiovascular issues.
While alternatives to sugar have been developed, these only have limited benefits over sugar. Therefore, finding a healthier substitution for sugar is highly desirable for researchers.
Now, a new protein-based sweetener has been developed by a team of German researchers, which represents an exciting new development [1].
The impact of sugar
Humans tend to like sugary foods and drink. Despite things like soda, sweets and cakes being unhealthy, they are consumed by many. Sugar activates the brain’s reward system, which helps to explain why so many people consume sugary snacks.
A common issue involves sugar being found in places we don’t expect it to be – such as smoothies, yoghurts, cereals, sauces, dressings and even some canned fruit!
The World Health Organization recommends a maximum daily intake of 25 grams of sugar per person [2]. For reference, a single 330ml can of Coca-Cola typically contains over 30 grams of sugar.
A positive development came in the 1960s, when artificial sweeteners like Acesulfame and Aspartame were developed. These sweeteners are commonly found in diet soda drinks, such as Pepsi Max or Diet Coke.
However, this doesn’t mean that these drinks are no longer unhealthy, as they still have acids like citric and phosphoric, which cause enamel erosion [3].
Therefore, looking for a healthier alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners is a key goal for researchers. It could have a significant impact on the health of many.
The sweetener
In Germany, there is an ongoing initiative to reduce sugar content in processed foods and beverages, which is being championed by the country’s Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture [1].
The sweetener has been called X3. X3 has the key ingredient of Brazzein, which is a naturally occurring sweet-tasting protein which is found in the berries of a shrub found in various African countries called Pentadiplandra Brazzeana [1].
However, unlike sugar, Brazzein does not contain sugar molecules. Yet Brazzein can be up to 2,000 times sweeter than sugar – underlining its potential for use as a sweetener [1].
In terms of turning Brazzein into a sweetener, the researchers optimise its protein sequence in terms of pH and temperature stability [1]. This also helps to improve the taste.
The process continues biotechnologically through microbial fermentation [1]. This helps to finetune the flavouring of the sweetener.
Brazzein has a honey-like flavour, making it ideal for use as a sweetener. Furthermore, it is calorie free, which is another positive.
Researchers at the institute are hoping to use X3 to replace sugar and existing sugar substitutes. Their particular focus is going to be on beverages [1].
The sweetener can be incorporated into drinks. The first products to feature X3 are currently under development by metaX, who are a partner of the researchers.
Researcher comments
The researchers are pleased with the development of this sugar substitute. X3 has the potential to have a big impact on our health.
Stefan Rasche is a scientist at the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME) in Aachen, Germany. Rasche played a role in the research, and provided information about the sweetener.
Rasche says that “a typical cola contains 106 grams of sugar per litre, which equates to about 430 calories” [1]. However, Rasche points out that “just a few milligrams of our sweet proteins are enough to achieve the same sweetness, significantly reducing calorie content” [1].
Continuing, Rasche says that “compared to currently available artificial sweeteners, X3 offers a better taste, as confirmed by taste tests” [1].
Furthermore, Rasche confirms that “our modified Brazzein variant doesn’t cause cavities or impact blood sugar levels” [1]. This is beneficial for our oral health.
Therefore, this drink can help with making sweeteners healthier and reducing calorie consumption. This is beneficial to both oral health and our overall physical health.
X3 certainly seems like it has significant potential. If it proves successful, it could replace artificial sweeteners. If X3 does work as intended, it could make a substantial difference in terms of making some foods and drink healthier.
Thinking points…
[1] It is important for us all to have strong oral health. A good way of ensuring that there are no problems is to visit a dentist regularly for a check-up. This is even more important for those that have high-sugar or high-calorie diets – as these people are at a higher risk of cavities. You should attend the dentist at least once every six months. We recommend booking an appointment soon!
[2] A common misconception is that “diet” or “zero sugar” drinks like Diet Coke, Pepsi Max, or Coke Zero do not do any harm to our teeth. However, as mentioned above, it is the acid in these drinks that are harmful. If you know anyone who consumes a lot of these drinks, why not send this article to them to make them aware of the potential harm of these drinks? Consider sharing this article now!
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Taradale Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. At our Calgary dental clinic, we provide a range of services for our patients.
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
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References
[1] Oral Health. (2024). German researchers develop calorie-free, much sweeter sugar substitute that doesn’t cause cavities. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/news/10000-times-sweeter-german-researchers-develop-calorie-free-sugar-substitute-that-wont-cause-cavities-1003983196/. Last accessed: 21st December 2024.
[2] World Health Organization. (2015). WHO calls on countries to reduce sugars intake among adults and children. Available: https://www.who.int/news/item/04-03-2015-who-calls-on-countries-to-reduce-sugars-intake-among-adults-and-children/. Last accessed: 21st December 2024.
[3] NHS. (2023). The truth about sweeteners. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-types/are-sweeteners-safe/. Last accessed: 21st December 2024.
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