Sweet protein-based natural sweetener solutions for sugar-free beverages

Overview

Isweetch designs and manufactures novel sweet proteins for industrial food and beverage applications. Their core technology centers on MNEI, a single-chain derivative of the natural sweet protein monellin, engineered for improved thermal stability and sweetness. By developing a panel of MNEI variants and combining them with other protein and non-protein sweeteners, Isweetch creates tailored sweetening formulations that can replicate the taste profile of sugar in beverages — including sugar-free versions of established drink brands.

The approach addresses the key challenges that have limited the adoption of protein-based sweeteners: thermal instability, delayed sweetness onset, and lingering aftertaste. Through rational protein design guided by structural biology expertise, Isweetch optimizes both the sweetener molecules and their combinations to deliver a consumer experience comparable to sugar.

Technical specifications

Sweet protein platform:

• Based on MNEI, a single-chain derivative of monellin with greater thermal stability than the natural parent protein (which loses sweetness above 50 °C)
• Panel of engineered MNEI variants with different characteristics suited to various beverage applications
• Sweetness profile optimized through rational design informed by structural biology

Formulation approach:

• Sweetening mixtures combining protein and non-protein sweeteners to achieve target taste profiles
• Custom formulations designed to address stability, onset timing, and aftertaste
• Co-formulants used to solve negative sensory attributes

Validation capabilities:

• Protein screening for test preparations
• Simplified gustatory assays
• Simulation of industrial production conditions including thermal cycles, pressure, and filtration
• Packaging interaction studies
• Shelf-life evaluation

Technology readiness level

Isweetch has already developed and characterized multiple MNEI variants with increased sweetness, thermal stability, and shelf-life, with results reported in scientific publications and communications. The technology is at the formulation optimization and industrial validation stage. Remaining steps include taste profile optimization for specific beverages, simulation of industrial production phases, packaging compatibility testing, and comprehensive shelf-life evaluation. The platform is positioned for partnership with beverage manufacturers seeking natural, sugar-free sweetening solutions.