Introduction

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol that is commonly used as a sweetener and humectant in various food products. It is naturally found in small amounts in certain fruits, such as apples, pears, and cherries. Sorbitol is known for being low in calories and is often used as a sugar substitute in "sugar-free" and "diet" products.

Properties:

- Sweetness: Sorbitol is about 60% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar), which means it provides some sweetness without being as sweet as sugar.

- Caloric Content: Sorbitol contains approximately 2.6 calories per gram, which is lower than the 4 calories per gram found in sugar.

- Humectant: Sorbitol acts as a humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture in food products, improving texture and shelf life.

Applications:

Sorbitol powder is widely used in a variety of food and non-food products, including:

- Sugar-free candies and chewing gum

- Baked goods and desserts

- Ice creams and frozen desserts

- Nutritional and dietary products

- Pharmaceutical formulations (like sugar-free syrups and elixirs)

Benefits:

Sorbitol has several favorable attributes, including:

- Dental Health: Similar to xylitol, sorbitol does not contribute to tooth decay and is often used in sugar-free gum and oral care products.

- Digestive Health: Sorbitol may aid in digestion; however, excessive consumption can have a laxative effect.

Specification