Understanding Erythritol in Sweeteners
Erythritol is a type of sugar alcohol, or polyol, that is used to provide sweetness with very few calories. It is naturally present in some fruits and fermented foods, but the erythritol used commercially is typically produced through a fermentation process, often using corn starch. Because it is not fully absorbed by the body, it does not significantly impact blood sugar levels, making it popular for keto and diabetic-friendly products.
It is often blended with other high-intensity sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to add bulk, texture, and a more sugar-like flavor profile. Identifying its presence requires checking the ingredient list, as it may be listed simply under 'sugar alcohols' on the nutritional panel, though specific products often list it by name.
Sweetener Brands That Use Erythritol
Many popular sweetener brands utilize erythritol in their products. This list includes some of the most common ones found in grocery stores and online.
- Truvia: While known for its stevia extract, Truvia's popular calorie-free sweetener packets and spoonable jars contain erythritol as a bulking agent. The company explicitly mentions its use to evenly disperse the stevia for uniform sweetness.
- Swerve: This brand is built around an erythritol-based formulation, combining it with oligosaccharides and natural flavors to provide a sugar-like taste and texture. It is marketed as a zero-calorie, zero-glycemic index sweetener available in granular, confectioners, and brown sugar versions.
- Lakanto: Most Lakanto monk fruit sweeteners are a blend of monk fruit extract and erythritol. They offer this blend in classic (white) and golden (brown sugar-like) varieties, which measure cup-for-cup like sugar.
- Monk Fruit In The Raw: This product is a 1:1 sugar replacement that combines monk fruit extract with erythritol as a bulking agent.
- Pyure: This brand of USDA Organic stevia sweetener is a blend of organic erythritol, organic stevia leaf extract, and organic soluble fiber. It is marketed for its clean ingredients and non-GMO status.
- Purecane: This sweetener is derived from fermented sugarcane, but its packets and baking blends list erythritol as a primary bulking ingredient alongside fermented sugarcane Reb M.
- Health Garden: This brand offers pure erythritol and blends with stevia, catering to those who prefer straight erythritol or a combination sweetener.
- So Nourished: A brand primarily selling on platforms like Amazon, its monk fruit and erythritol blend is a popular option for those seeking a keto-friendly sweetener.
How to Check for Erythritol
Finding erythritol in a product isn't always as simple as checking the main nutritional information. Follow these steps to be sure:
- Examine the Ingredient List: Always read the full ingredient list on the packaging. This is where you will find 'erythritol' listed by name.
- Look for 'Sugar Alcohols': Some products may lump erythritol in with other polyols under the umbrella term 'sugar alcohols' on the nutrition facts panel. The ingredient list is the most reliable place for specifics.
- Cross-Reference Products Online: If in doubt, check the brand's official website or product pages on retailer sites like Amazon or iHerb, which often provide full ingredient details.
Comparison Table of Erythritol-Containing Sweeteners
| Brand | Primary Sweetener Type | Erythritol Included | Typical Product Formats | Blended With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truvia | Stevia-based | Yes | Packets, Spoonable Jar | Stevia leaf extract, natural flavors |
| Swerve | Erythritol-based | Yes | Granular, Confectioners, Brown | Oligosaccharides, natural flavors |
| Lakanto | Monk Fruit-based | Yes | Granular (Classic & Golden), Powdered | Monk fruit extract |
| Monk Fruit In The Raw | Monk Fruit-based | Yes | Granular (1:1 with Sugar) | Monk fruit extract |
| Pyure Organic | Stevia-based | Yes | Granular, Powdered | Organic stevia extract, tapioca fiber |
| Purecane | Fermented Sugarcane Reb M | Yes | Packets, Baking Blends | Fermented sugarcane Reb M, fiber |
| Health Garden | Erythritol/Stevia | Yes | Granular, Packets | Can be pure erythritol or with stevia |
Conclusion
Erythritol is a widely used ingredient in low-calorie and keto-friendly sweetener brands, often blended with other high-intensity sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit to achieve a more balanced flavor and bulk. Key brands like Truvia, Swerve, Lakanto, Monk Fruit In The Raw, Pyure, and Purecane all incorporate erythritol into various products. For consumers aiming to control their intake of this sugar alcohol, the most reliable method is to always check the full ingredient list. This proactive approach ensures you know exactly what is in your food, aligning your sweetener choices with your dietary goals. For more information on erythritol, you can visit the comprehensive overview provided by WebMD.
Common Foods Containing Erythritol (Beyond Sweeteners)
Beyond the specific sweetener blends, it's important to recognize that erythritol is also frequently used in other food items marketed as sugar-free or low-carb. These can include:
- Keto and low-carb baked goods: Cookies, brownies, and pastries from brands like HighKey or Quest often use it.
- Sugar-free candy and chocolate: Lily's Sweets and Russell Stover's sugar-free options contain erythritol.
- Zero-sugar beverages: Some flavored waters and sodas, such as certain Vitamin Water Zero and Bai varieties, include it in their formula.
- Protein bars and powders: Many sports nutrition products incorporate erythritol.
Ingredient Blends vs. Pure Erythritol
Some brands, like Swerve, primarily build their sweetener around erythritol, blending it for texture and function. Others, like Truvia and Lakanto, use it as a secondary, bulking ingredient to mitigate the intense sweetness and aftertaste of stevia or monk fruit. Pure erythritol is also available from brands like NOW Foods or Health Garden for baking and custom sweetening purposes.
