E968 – Erythritol
SweetenerDescription
Technical Description: Erythritol (E968) is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used as a bulk sweetener and flavor enhancer. It is naturally occurring, but commercially produced through the fermentation of glucose by yeast (e.g., Moniliella pollinis or Yarrowia lipolytica). It has a sweetness intensity of about 60-80% of sucrose, a low caloric value (0.2 kcal/g, though often classified as zero-calorie for labeling purposes in some regions), and a high digestive tolerance due to its rapid absorption in the small intestine and subsequent excretion primarily unmetabolized in the urine. It exhibits a pleasant, non-caramelized sweetness profile and a significant cooling effect (negative heat of solution). It is chemically characterized by the formula C4H10O4.
Notes
Erythritol is produced through a fermentation process where special yeasts feed on glucose (a simple sugar often derived from corn). During this fermentation, the yeast naturally converts the glucose into erythritol, much like how yeast converts sugars into alcohol in brewing, but with a completely different end product. The erythritol is then separated, purified, and crystallized into a white, granular sweetener that looks very similar to regular sugar. This sugar alcohol provides about 70% of the sweetness of regular sugar but with virtually no calories - only about 0.2 calories per gram compared to sugar's 4 calories per gram. Like xylitol, erythritol creates a cooling sensation in your mouth, making it popular in sugar-free gums, mints, and beverages. You'll also find it in low-calorie baked goods, protein bars, and as a tabletop sweetener for coffee and tea, often blended with other sweeteners to improve its taste profile. Erythritol is produced through fermentation of plant-derived sugars, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and it contains no common allergens. It's generally well-tolerated compared to other sugar alcohols, causing fewer digestive issues even when consumed in larger quantities, though very large amounts may still cause some stomach upset in sensitive individuals. The ingredient is recognized as safe by food authorities worldwide and doesn't significantly impact blood sugar levels, making it popular among people managing diabetes.