Xylitol

Other names: Xylitol

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Xylitol, or also a white crystalline substance with a cooling effect on the tongue, is an alternative sweetener and is found in many foods and everyday products. It is a five-atom alcohol that occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables, for example. In the food industry, it is added to products as a sugar substitute as it has a similar sweetness but contains 40% fewer calories. Significantly, its consumption does not cause a rise in blood sugar levels.

Xylitol is mainly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It can be found in various confectionery products such as sweets, chewing gum and lozenges, but also in candy and ice cream. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it is also added to dental products such as toothpastes, mouthwashes or special chewing gums to promote tooth and gum health. Recently, it has also been increasingly used in cosmetics, for example in lotions, soaps and shampoos. In addition, it is often used as a sugar substitute for diabetics or for people who want to lose weight.