BERLIN: German researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking sugar substitute called X3, a protein-based sweetener designed to combat health issues linked to excessive sugar consumption. Developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME) in Aachen, this innovation aligns with Germany's Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture's efforts to reduce sugar in processed foods. Following are the key Features of X3:
Extreme sweetness: One gram of X3 equals the sweetness of 10 kilograms of sugar.
Health benefits: Calorie-free and cavity-free, X3 doesn't spike blood sugar levels, making it a healthier option than traditional sugar and artificial sweeteners.
Natural origin: The key ingredient, Brazzein, is derived from berries of Pentadiplandra brazzeana, a plant native to Africa. Brazzein is up to 2,000 times sweeter than sugar without containing sugar molecules.
The primary target for X3 is the beverage industry, with plans to replace sugar in drinks and low-protein cocoa-based powders. MetaX, a project partner, is developing early products featuring X3. The sweetener offers a honey-like flavor profile, distinguishing it from existing artificial sweeteners.
Excessive sugar intake has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems, costing economies billions annually. X3 offers a promising alternative, potentially reducing calorie consumption without compromising taste.
While X3 is a promising innovation, challenges remain in scaling production and gaining consumer acceptance. However, its natural composition and superior taste profile could lead to widespread adoption in the food industry.