What Exactly is Sweetener 965 (Maltitol)?
Sweetener 965 is the food additive code for maltitol, a polyol, or sugar alcohol, used widely in food manufacturing as a bulk sweetener. Its chemical structure is derived from the hydrogenation of maltose, a sugar extracted from starches like corn, potatoes, and wheat. Maltitol is valued for its clean, sugar-like taste without the unpleasant aftertaste associated with some other high-intensity sweeteners. It comes in two primary forms: a crystalline powder (E965i) and a syrup (E965ii), each suited for different applications.
How is Sweetener 965 Produced?
The production of maltitol is a multi-step industrial process beginning with readily available starches.
- Starch Hydrolysis: The process starts by breaking down starch from sources like corn or wheat into maltose-rich syrup, using enzymes.
- Hydrogenation: This maltose syrup then undergoes a hydrogenation process, where a catalyst and hydrogen are used to reduce the maltose to maltitol.
- Purification and Crystallization: The resulting maltitol solution is purified and then concentrated. It can either be sold as a syrup or further processed to create a crystalline powder.
What Are the Main Uses of Maltitol?
Because of its properties, maltitol is a versatile ingredient in many food and pharmaceutical products.
- Confectionery: It is a key ingredient in sugar-free candies, chocolates, and chewing gums. In chocolate, it delivers a taste and texture very similar to sucrose-based chocolate with no cooling effect. For chewing gum, it provides a crunchy coating and a glossy finish.
- Baked Goods: Used in sugar-free cookies and pastries, it helps retain moisture, preventing browning during baking and extending shelf life.
- Dairy Products: Maltitol is found in ice cream, desserts, and yogurt, acting as a sugar replacement to maintain a creamy texture and sweetness.
- Pharmaceuticals: The pharmaceutical industry uses it as a low-calorie filler and sweetener in medications, particularly in syrups and chewable tablets, to improve palatability.
- Tabletop Sweeteners: It is also available for consumer use as a granular or powdered tabletop sweetener.
Maltitol vs. Other Common Sweeteners
| Feature | Sweetener 965 (Maltitol) | Sucrose (Table Sugar) | Erythritol | Stevia | Aspartame |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloric Value (per gram) | ~2.1 kcal | 4 kcal | 0 kcal | 0 kcal | 0 kcal |
| Sweetness Level | 75-90% of sugar | 100% | ~70% of sugar | 200-300x sugar | 200x sugar |
| Glycemic Index (GI) | Crystalline: 36, Syrup: 52 | 65 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Taste Profile | Clean, sugar-like, no aftertaste or cooling effect | Standard sweet | Mild sweetness, slight cooling effect | Intense sweetness, some may detect a bitter aftertaste | Intense sweetness, no aftertaste |
| Digestive Effects (at high doses) | Can cause gas, bloating, and laxative effect | None | Well-tolerated, minimal digestive issues | None | None |
Is Sweetener 965 Safe and for Whom is it Intended?
Regulatory bodies like the FDA and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) classify maltitol as safe for consumption. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes and those managing their weight due to its lower caloric content and lower impact on blood glucose levels compared to sugar. However, it is not a zero-calorie, zero-glycemic index sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Diabetics should still monitor their intake and carbohydrate count when consuming products containing maltitol.
Digestive Considerations
As a sugar alcohol, maltitol is not completely absorbed by the small intestine. The undigested portion travels to the large intestine where it is fermented by gut bacteria, which can cause symptoms in some individuals. Potential side effects include gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and a laxative effect, particularly with excessive consumption. The intensity of these effects varies from person to person. In fact, food products with more than 10% polyols are often required to carry a warning about potential laxative effects.
Conclusion: Navigating Sweetener 965 in a Modern Diet
Sweetener 965, or maltitol, is a versatile and effective bulk sugar substitute that has become a staple in many low-calorie and sugar-free foods. It provides a desirable sugar-like taste and texture, with fewer calories and a gentler impact on blood sugar than traditional table sugar. While it is a valuable tool for managing sugar intake and weight, consumers should be aware of the potential for digestive side effects, especially when consumed in large amounts. For those with conditions like diabetes, it is crucial to recognize that maltitol still affects blood glucose, albeit less dramatically than sucrose. For a healthier diet, it's generally best to consume processed foods with any sweetener in moderation and to prioritize whole, unprocessed foods.
For more detailed technical information on maltitol and other food additives, you can visit resources such as the European Association of Polyol Producers: polyols-eu.org.
