Biotech firm Senomyx has struck a deal with flavours giant Firmenich to develop S2383, a new ingredient that enhances the taste of the high intensity sweetener sucralose.
In taste tests, S2383 enabled sucralose to be reduced by up to 75% while maintaining the desired sweet taste.
This could help food and drink manufacturers save money and improve the taste of certain products, claim the partners.
Firmenich boss Patrick Firmenich said: "S2383 may be appropriate for many of our clients who are searching for unique methods to reduce the cost of sweeteners."
He added: "The combined use of S2383 and our proprietary delivery systems may also produce a taste benefit in certain applications."
The tie up follows a recent collaboration between the two firms to develop novel flavor ingredients that provide a cooling taste effect.