What is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a type of carbohydrate known as a sugar alcohol, or polyol. It occurs naturally in fruits like apples, apricots, dates, and pears, but is also commercially manufactured from corn syrup. It serves as a popular sugar substitute because it contains roughly two-thirds of the calories of table sugar and provides about 60% of the sweetness. Because sorbitol is slowly and incompletely absorbed by the small intestine, it has a minimal effect on blood sugar levels, making it a common ingredient in diabetic and sugar-free products. However, the unabsorbed portion travels to the large intestine where it is fermented by bacteria, a process that can cause digestive upset.
Popular Candies and Gums with Sorbitol
Manufacturers commonly use sorbitol in dietetic products to achieve a sweet taste without using traditional sugar. If you are wondering which candy has sorbitol, the ingredient is ubiquitous in the sugar-free market, but you can look for specific brands and product types. Always check the ingredient list for 'sorbitol' or its European food additive code, E420.
Sugar-Free Hard Candies
Many classic hard candy brands offer sugar-free versions that rely on sorbitol for sweetness. A notable example is Eda's Sugarfree Candy, which uses sorbitol as its primary sweetener in a variety of fruit and butterscotch flavors. Other examples include:
- Werther's Original Sugar Free Caramel Candies
- Jolly Rancher Zero Sugar Hard Candy
- Various private label sugar-free starlight mints
Sugar-Free Chewing Gums
Sorbitol is a standard sweetener in many sugar-free chewing gums. It is less expensive than other polyols, such as xylitol, making it a cost-effective choice for manufacturers. Brands often contain a mix of sugar alcohols, but sorbitol is typically a key component. Examples include:
- Trident
- Wrigley's Extra
- Sticks of generic sugar-free gum
Other Dietetic Products
Beyond traditional candies and gums, sorbitol is also found in other confectionery items marketed as 'diet' or 'sugar-free', such as diabetic chocolates, mints, and some baked goods. It is also used as a humectant in many processed foods to retain moisture and improve texture.
Why Manufacturers Use Sorbitol in Candy
Sorbitol provides several functional benefits that appeal to both manufacturers and consumers:
- Dental Health: Unlike sugar, sorbitol is not metabolized by oral bacteria, which means it does not contribute to tooth decay and is considered non-cariogenic.
- Reduced Calories: Sorbitol contains fewer calories per gram than sugar, helping to create lower-calorie versions of treats.
- Moisture Retention: As a humectant, sorbitol keeps products moist and fresh, preventing them from drying out or becoming brittle.
- Slow Absorption: For individuals with diabetes, the slower absorption rate of sorbitol helps manage blood sugar levels more effectively than sugar.
Potential Side Effects of Sorbitol
While sorbitol is generally recognized as safe, excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress. The poorly absorbed sugar alcohol draws water into the large intestine, causing a laxative effect. Potential side effects include:
- Bloating and gas
- Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
- Diarrhea, which can be severe in cases of high intake
Excessive intake is defined differently for everyone, but warnings are often mandated on products where a reasonable consumption could exceed 50 grams per day. The degree of sensitivity can vary, and some people with conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or fructose malabsorption may be especially sensitive, needing to follow a low FODMAP diet.
| Feature | Sorbitol | Xylitol | Erythritol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetness (vs. Sucrose) | ~60% | ~100% | ~70% |
| Calories (kcal/g) | ~2.6 | ~2.4 | ~0.2 |
| Absorption Rate | Slow and incomplete | Slow and incomplete | Rapid and complete |
| Laxative Effect | Moderate to high, depending on dose | Lower than sorbitol | Very low, not typically laxative |
| Primary Use | Sugar-free candies, gums, medicine | Gums, mints, dental products | Zero-calorie sweetener |
Reading the Label for Sorbitol
Always check the nutrition label and ingredient list for sugar-free products. Manufacturers are required to list all ingredients. Look for the terms:
- Sorbitol
- Sorbitol syrup
- E420 (the food additive code)
Pay attention to the "Sugar Alcohol" section on the nutrition facts panel, which indicates the amount of sorbitol and other polyols. If you're sensitive, a good practice is to start with a very small portion of a product and monitor your body's reaction before consuming more.
Sorbitol in a Nutrition Diet
For many, moderate consumption of sorbitol-sweetened products is perfectly acceptable, especially as part of a weight-management or low-sugar diet. The key is moderation. Understanding portion sizes is critical to avoid the unwanted side effects that can occur with larger doses. For example, some individuals may experience issues after as little as 10 grams, while others tolerate significantly more. Always consider your own tolerance levels.
For those who are highly sensitive or follow a low FODMAP diet, limiting or avoiding sorbitol-containing items is best. In these cases, opting for alternatives like erythritol, which is more readily absorbed and less likely to cause digestive distress, might be a better choice. Remember that while sorbitol is not a magic solution for weight loss, it can serve as a lower-calorie alternative to sugar-sweetened treats when used appropriately.
Conclusion
Sorbitol is a common sugar alcohol widely used in sugar-free candies and gums due to its lower calorie content and dental health benefits. Brands like Eda's, Werther's Original Sugar Free, and many sugar-free chewing gums regularly feature this ingredient. However, its incomplete absorption can lead to significant gastrointestinal issues if consumed in large quantities. The key to including sorbitol in a balanced nutrition diet is to check labels, be aware of portion sizes, and listen to your body's tolerance, especially for those with digestive sensitivities.
