Ingredient sourcing
L-Theanine sourcing in 2026.
L-theanine is the most-requested calm-focus amino acid. The main sourcing fork is Suntheanine (Taiyo, branded, fermented) vs generic L-theanine (synthetic or fermented, mostly Chinese). The branded version has the clinical evidence, generic has the price.
Forms on the market
| Form | Notes |
|---|---|
| Suntheanine (Taiyo) ≥98% | Branded, fermented, RCT-backed |
| Generic L-theanine ≥98% | Synthetic or fermented, Chinese |
| Green tea extract 5–20% theanine | Whole-leaf extract, mixed actives |
EU pricing and MOQ
- Suntheanine: €350–€500/kg, MOQ 5 kg
- Generic 98% (Chinese): €80–€140/kg, MOQ 25 kg
- Green tea extract: €40–€80/kg, MOQ 25 kg
What to test per batch
- L-theanine % by HPLC
- Enantiomeric purity (L vs DL), synthetic versions can be DL
- Heavy metals, residual solvents
- Caffeine check (if green-tea-extract sourced)
Regulatory in the EU
Not a novel food (long pre-1997 tea consumption establishes history). No authorised EFSA health claim, claims must be carefully worded.
Top suppliers
Taiyo (Suntheanine) · Blue California · Hangzhou Sunshine Biotech · Several verified Chinese fermentation plants
Need L-Theanine quotes?
Tell Jake kg/year, form, and target market. He'll intro 2–3 verified suppliers with CoAs and samples.