How did scientists create the new tagatose sweetener?

Scientists engineered bacteria, incorporating a slime mold enzyme, to efficiently convert glucose into tagatose.

What are the benefits of tagatose over regular sugar?

Tagatose is about 92% as sweet but has 60% fewer calories, impacts blood sugar minimally, and may benefit oral health.

Will this new tagatose production method be available soon?

If the process can be scaled for industrial use, it could lead to broader adoption and production of other rare sugars.

Home / Science / Slime Mold Inspires Sugar Substitute Breakthrough

Slime Mold Inspires Sugar Substitute Breakthrough

15 Jan

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Summary

Engineered bacteria create tagatose, a sweetener 92% as sweet as sugar.
This new tagatose production method offers higher yields and is cost-effective.
Tagatose offers potential benefits for blood sugar and oral health.

Slime Mold Inspires Sugar Substitute Breakthrough

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking method for producing tagatose, a healthier sugar alternative, by harnessing the power of engineered bacteria and a unique enzyme found in slime mold. This novel process converts abundant glucose into tagatose with unprecedented efficiency, potentially making this low-calorie sweetener more accessible.

Traditionally, tagatose production has been costly and inefficient. The new technique utilizes genetically modified Escherichia coli bacteria, incorporating a slime mold enzyme to effectively reverse a natural metabolic pathway. This results in significantly higher yields, surpassing conventional manufacturing methods and paving the way for industrial scalability.

Beyond its use as a bulk sweetener that behaves like sugar in cooking and baking, tagatose offers potential health benefits. It has a minimal impact on blood glucose and insulin levels and may even inhibit harmful oral bacteria, positioning it as a promising alternative for consumers seeking healthier options without compromising taste or texture.