Maltitol

Other names: E965

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Maltitol, also known by its European designation E965, is a low-calorie polyol (sugar alcohol) used as a sugar substitute. Maltitol is derived from maltose (double sugar), which in turn is derived from starch. It has a pleasant sweet taste that is almost identical to that of sucrose, but has only 90% of the caloric content of regular sugar. As such, it is particularly popular in dietary and diabetic products.

E965 is used in many food products, including candy, chocolate, chewing gum or confectionery products - especially those intended for diabetics or consumers with a restricted sugar intake. Maltitol is also a common ingredient in baked goods and sugary drinks. In addition, it is used as a sweetener in pharmaceutical products such as some types of cough medicine and vitamin supplements. Its properties, which include sweetness and the ability to improve the consistency of foods or to induce a feeling of fullness, make maltitol a useful and popular aid in the food industry. It also has the advantage of lower calorie content and reducing the risk of tooth decay.