L-Theanine
L-theanine is a natural constituent of tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) and may act as a stimulant.
Found In
- Bottled waters
- Breath mints
- Chocolate power bars and chews
- Coffee
- Fruit Juices
- Gums
- Hard candies
- Non-herbal teas
- Sport beverages
- Tea
- Bottled waters
- Breath mints
- Chocolate power bars and chews
- Coffee
- Fruit Juices
- Gums
- Hard candies
- Non-herbal teas
- Sport beverages
- Tea
Also Known As
- Gamma-Glutamylethylamide
- L-Glutamic Acid-γ-Monoethylamide
- L-TeaActive™ (GRN 338)
- N-Ethyl-L-Glutamine
- Suntheanine® (GRN 209)
- Y-Glutamylethylamide
- Gamma-Glutamylethylamide
- L-Glutamic Acid-γ-Monoethylamide
- L-TeaActive™ (GRN 338)
- N-Ethyl-L-Glutamine
- Suntheanine® (GRN 209)
- Y-Glutamylethylamide
The Beverage Bottom Line
L-theanine is authorized for use in the U.S. and Canada. L-theanine has not yet been evaluated for use in beverages in Europe.
This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.
L-theanine is authorized for use in the U.S. and Canada. L-theanine has not yet been evaluated for use in beverages in Europe.
This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.
International Assessments and Authorizations
FDA U.S. Food And Drug Administration
Generally recognized as safe for intended uses. (GRAS FDA-Notified, GRAS Self-Determined)
In 2007, 2010 and 2014, FDA issued no objections to several GRAS notices on L-theanine.
Learn more →EFSA European Food Safety Authority
EU considers L-theanine not novel in dietary supplements.
In 2011, EFSA reviewed health claims related to L-theanine.
Learn more →JECFA Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives
Not yet evaluated.
Health Canada
Permitted for use as a supplemental ingredient. Ingredient has a history of safe use as a food.
Learn more →This page was last updated on 6/30/2025