Why We Switched from Stevia to Thaumatin: Our Commitment to Improvement

At Body Armour, we are always working to improve our products, ensuring they meet high standards for effectiveness, taste, and quality. This approach includes staying up to date with the latest research and considering customer feedback.

As part of this commitment, we recently switched from stevia to thaumatin as the natural sweetener in our sleep product. This change aligns with our focus on delivering a better overall experience, without compromising on quality.

What is Thaumatin?

Thaumatin is a natural protein extracted from the fruit of the West African katemfe plant. It provides a mild, smooth sweetness, without the bitterness that some people associate with stevia. By switching to thaumatin, we’ve created a sweeter, more balanced flavour that complements the other calming ingredients in our sleep formula. This helps ensure that the taste of the product aligns with its intended purpose—supporting relaxation and better sleep.

Why Not Stevia?

Stevia, derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, is commonly used as a natural sweetener because of its zero-calorie profile. However, some users report a bitter aftertaste, which can be more pronounced in certain formulations, including those designed for sleep. Since a sleep product should help create a calming environment, an unpleasant aftertaste may interfere with that goal.

There are also concerns around how stevia is processed, as it often involves chemical solvents during extraction. Some research suggests that stevia may cause digestive discomfort by disrupting gut bacteria, particularly with frequent use. Thaumatin is better tolerated and avoids these issues, making it a more suitable option for our product.

The Role of Taste in a Sleep Product

Taste is important in any supplement, especially one designed to promote sleep. Our sleep product contains several herbal ingredients and nutrients, and the blackcurrant flavour—now enhanced with thaumatin—helps make it more palatable. A smoother taste supports a better overall experience when preparing for bed, avoiding any distractions that might come from unpleasant flavours.

Moving Forward

At Body Armour, we base our decisions on a combination of scientific research and customer feedback. By updating our ingredients, refining our formulas, and staying aligned with the latest evidence, we continue to prioritise quality and effectiveness in all our products.

Thank you for choosing Body Armour to support your health and well-being.