Erythritol

Definition

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol sugar substitute produced from glucose. It is 60-70% as sweet as sucrose and contains 0.2 calories per gram.

Health considerations

Erythritol is the best tolerated sugar alcohol, having a high threshold for appearance of gastrointestinal symptoms. Erythritol does not cause tooth decay and has no effect on blood glucose levels.

Keep in mind

At around 50 grams of intake erythritol is more likely to cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Children have a lower threshold level.

May be found in

Vitamin Water, Truvia, energy drinks, mints, diet soft drinks, diabetic alternatives, sugar free and reduced sugar candy, chocolate, gum, beverages, and confectionery, bulk sugar substitutes

References

EJCN: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
British Journal of Nutrition
Karger: Medical and Scientific Publishers
EFSA

Alternative Spellings and Names

E968