E420i - D-Glucitol

Origin

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) found naturally in some fruits, such as apples, pears, peaches, and prunes. It is commercially produced by the enzymatic hydrogenation of glucose. The resulting product is a white, crystalline powder with a sweet taste, approximately 60% as sweet as sucrose. Sorbitol is highly soluble in water and is also available in liquid form.

Usage

Sorbitol is widely used in the food industry as a humectant, sweetener, and texturizer. As a humectant, it helps retain moisture in food products, preventing them from drying out. It is commonly found in baked goods, candies, and chewing gum. As a sweetener, it is used in sugar-free or reduced-sugar products, such as diet drinks and diabetic foods. Sorbitol is also used as a stabilizer and thickener in various food applications. In pharmaceuticals, it serves as a bulking agent, stabilizer, and sweetener in tablets, syrups, and other medications. Furthermore, it is used in cosmetics and personal care products as a humectant and emollient.

Side Effects

Sorbitol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory agencies when consumed in moderate amounts. However, excessive consumption of sorbitol can lead to gastrointestinal distress, including bloating, gas, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. This is because sorbitol is poorly absorbed in the small intestine, and the unabsorbed sorbitol is fermented by bacteria in the large intestine, producing gas and other byproducts. Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) may be particularly sensitive to the effects of sorbitol. The World Health Organization (WHO) has not established a numerical Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for sorbitol, indicating its low toxicity. However, it is recommended to consume sorbitol in moderation to avoid potential gastrointestinal issues.

Regulatory Status

Sorbitol (E420i) is approved for use as a food additive in many countries, including the United States, the European Union, and Canada. In the United States, it is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the GRAS designation. In the European Union, it is listed as an approved food additive with the E number E420i. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated sorbitol and concluded that it is safe for use in food at current levels of intake.