erythritol sweetener

Detailed introduction to erythritol sweetener:

Erythritol, a polyol (sugar alcohol), is currently used as a bulk sweetener in reduced calorie foods. It occurs naturally in fruits such as pears, melons and grapes, as well as foods such as mushrooms and fermentation-derived foods such as wine, soy sauce and cheese. Since 1990, erythritol has been commercially produced and added to foods and beverages to provide sweetness, as well as enhance their taste and texture

Benefits of Erythritol

             Zero calorie: Erythritol has 0 calories per gram for food labeling purposes in the United States, Europe and Japan. This 0 calorie value is based on erythritol’s unique absorption and elimination process which does not involve the metabolism of erythritol. Thus, erythritol is uniquely qualified as a zero calorie bulk sweetener for formulating "reduced calorie" and "light" products which require a 25 percent or more calorie reduction from the standard formulation.

             High digestive tolerance: Erythritol is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine and studies have shown that erythritol is not fermented by the human body.  As a result, foods containing substantial amounts of erythritol are very unlikely to cause gaseous and laxation side effects. A recent clinical study concluded daily consumption of 1 gram per kilogram body weight of erythritol in various foods and beverages over the course of a day is well tolerated by adults as compared to sucrose containing foods.

             Safe for people with diabetes: Single dose and 14-day clinical studies demonstrate erythritol does not affect blood serum glucose or insulin levels. Clinical studies conducted in people with diabetes conclude that erythritol may be safely used to replace sucrose in foods formulated specifically for people with diabetes. Of course, those with diabetes should consider the impact on their diet of other ingredients used in foods sweetened with erythritol.

             Does not cause tooth decay: Erythritol like other polyols is resistant to metabolism by oral bacteria which break down sugars and starches to produce acids which may lead to tooth enamel loss and cavities formation. They are, therefore, non-cariogenic. The usefulness of polyols, including erythritol, as alternatives to sugars and as part of a comprehensive program including proper dental hygiene has been recognized by the . The FDA has approved the use of a "does not promote tooth decay" health claim in labeling for sugar-free foods that contain erythritol or other polyols. 

Facts About Erythritol

             Zero calorie sweetener

             Bulk sweetener which can be blended with low-calorie sweeteners (e.g., acesulfame potassium and aspartame) and/or other polyols (e.g., sorbitol and xylitol)

             Clean sweet taste with no aftertaste

             Potential use in a variety of zero/low-calorie, low-fat and sugar-free foods and beverages--from candies to yogurts

             Beneficial for people with diabetes because it does not raise blood glucose or insulin levels

             Does not contribute to the formation of dental caries