Introduction

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used as a low-calorie sweetener in various food and beverage products. Here’s an overview of its characteristics and uses:

1. Chemical Composition: Erythritol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that can be found in small amounts in some fruits, fermented foods, and even certain fungi. It has a chemical structure similar to glucose but is unique in that it contains fewer calories.

2. Sweetness: Erythritol is about 60-80% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar), making it a popular alternative for those looking to reduce sugar intake without sacrificing sweetness. It provides a clean, sweet taste without a strong aftertaste, which can be found with some other artificial sweeteners.

3. Low-Calorie: One of the main advantages of erythritol is that it has negligible calories—approximately 0.2 calories per gram—making it an attractive option for low-calorie, sugar-free, and ketogenic products. This allows consumers to enjoy sweet flavors without contributing significantly to their calorie intake.

4. Digestive Tolerance: Erythritol is well-tolerated by most individuals because it is absorbed in the small intestine and excreted in urine, with minimal fermentation in the gut. This results in a lower likelihood of digestive discomfort compared to other sugar alcohols, which can cause bloating or laxative effects when consumed in larger quantities.

5. Applications: Erythritol is widely used in various food products, including sugar-free candies, desserts, beverages, and baked goods. It can also be found in table-top sweetener products, where it is often blended with other sweeteners to enhance sweetness and improve taste.

Specification