Supplements · Amino acids & peptides
L-Theanine
L-テアニン (L-Teanin)
Also known as: Theanine
At a glance
| Category | Supplements |
|---|---|
| INCI name | Theanine (cosmetic context) |
| Japanese labeling name | テアニン |
| Common Japanese notations | L-テアニン, テアニン |
| CAS number | 3081-61-6 |
| Origin | Plant-derived (predominantly from Camellia sinensis) |
| Typical functions | Functional food ingredient (relaxation, sleep), Tea umami component, Cosmetic skin conditioning |
| Regulatory status in Japan | L-theanine appears in FFC notifications. Cosmetic use under JSCI dictionary. |
L-theanine is the amino acid responsible for the umami character of green tea, especially shade-grown teas like gyokuro and matcha. It is also a major ingredient in functional food supplements positioning around relaxation and sleep quality, with multiple Foods with Function Claims notifications in Japan.
Classification
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Used in (typical product categories)
Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.
- FFC supplements (sleep, relaxation)
- Functional beverages
- Premium green tea (natural source)
- Functional chocolate
What it is
L-theanine is a non-protein amino acid that occurs naturally in the leaves of Camellia sinensis (tea) and a few other species. Shaded tea leaves accumulate higher theanine concentrations than sun-grown leaves.
Typical uses in Japanese products
In supplements, L-theanine appears in soft-gel and tablet products marketed for relaxation and sleep quality, often with FFC notifications.
Regulatory classification in Japan
FFC notifications involving L-theanine have been submitted to the Consumer Affairs Agency.
Regulatory classification in other markets
| EU | Supplement uses are permitted under general food law; specific health claims require EFSA review. |
|---|---|
| USA | Sold as a dietary supplement. |
| China | Verify against current regulatory listings. |
| Korea | Permitted. |
Example products
Example finished products will be added after verification.
All brand names and product names referenced anywhere on this site are the property of their respective owners. Example entries are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement.
Related ingredients
References
- Japan Consumer Affairs Agency — Foods with Function Claims notification database
Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.