Erythritol: The Generic and the Brand Name
Erythritol is a polyol, or sugar alcohol, that is approximately 70% as sweet as sugar but contains almost no calories. It is naturally found in small amounts in some fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods, but the commercial version is produced by fermenting glucose from corn or wheat starch. When sold for home use, you can often find erythritol simply labeled as "Erythritol" from brands like NOW Foods and Whole Earth. However, it is also a key component in many popular, zero-calorie branded sweeteners and products that combine it with other high-intensity sweeteners.
Popular Brand Name Sweeteners Containing Erythritol
Many recognizable sugar substitute brands use erythritol, often in a blend to create a taste and texture more similar to sugar. These blends are frequently found in grocery stores and online.
- Truvia: This brand primarily markets itself as a stevia-based sweetener, but its granulated products contain a blend of stevia leaf extract and erythritol. The erythritol acts as a bulking agent, providing the right texture for baking and measuring, since stevia is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar.
- Swerve: This is a well-known, dedicated erythritol-based sweetener available in various forms, including granular, powdered, and brown sugar varieties. Swerve's primary ingredient is erythritol, and it is known for its sugar-like texture and baking performance.
- Lakanto: This popular brand offers a monk fruit sweetener that is blended with erythritol. Similar to Truvia, the combination dilutes the intensity of the monk fruit and provides better bulk and flavor.
- Pyure Organic: Pyure provides an organic sweetener option that is also a blend of stevia and erythritol.
- Splenda Naturals Stevia: Some of the Splenda brand's 'Natural' line of products, which are not the classic sucralose packets, also use erythritol in their formulations.
Erythritol in Packaged Foods and Beverages
Beyond dedicated sweeteners, erythritol is a common additive in a vast array of packaged foods to reduce calories and sugar content. It can be found in many items marketed as 'sugar-free,' 'low-carb,' or 'keto-friendly.' Consumers must check the ingredient list for 'erythritol' or the generic term 'sugar alcohols,' as the latter is not always specific.
Common Products Containing Erythritol:
- Baked Goods: Sugar-free cookies, keto bread, and pre-made baking mixes.
- Confectionery: Sugar-free candies, gums, and chocolates, including brands like Lily's Sweets and Russell Stover.
- Dairy Products: Low-calorie ice creams and dairy-free alternatives, such as Halo Top and Rebel Creamery.
- Beverages: Diet sodas, flavored waters (e.g., VitaminWater Zero), and energy drinks.
- Protein Products: Many protein bars, shakes, and powders use erythritol to enhance flavor while keeping carb counts low.
Erythritol vs. Other Sweeteners: A Comparison
To understand why erythritol is so popular, it's helpful to compare its characteristics with other common sweeteners.
| Characteristic | Erythritol | Xylitol | Stevia | Sucrose (Sugar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetness | 60–80% of sugar | Equal to sugar | 200–400x sweeter than sugar | Standard (100%) |
| Calories (per gram) | ~0.2 (almost zero) | 2.4 | 0 | 4 |
| Glycemic Index | 0 (no effect on blood sugar) | 12 | 0 (no effect on blood sugar) | 65 (significant effect) |
| Digestive Tolerance | Very high; 90% absorbed before the colon | Moderate; can cause bloating and diarrhea | Very high; minimal digestive impact | Varies, but well-tolerated in moderation |
| Aftertaste | Minimal; slight cooling effect | None noted | Potential bitter notes | None |
Safety, Regulation, and Considerations
Erythritol has been reviewed and classified as "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, consumers should be aware of a 2023 study published in Nature Medicine that suggested a potential link between high blood levels of erythritol and an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including blood clots, in certain at-risk individuals. The study emphasized that this was associated with very high levels of consumption, and more research is needed. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also reaffirmed erythritol's safety in 2023. For most people, moderate consumption is well-tolerated, but those with heart health concerns should consult a doctor or dietitian. You can find more information on the original research here.
Conclusion: Navigating Sweetener Choices
To answer the question, "what name is erythritol sold under?" the answer is a combination of its generic name, as a component in various branded sweeteners (like Truvia, Swerve, and Lakanto), and as an ingredient in a wide range of packaged foods. The key for consumers is to be vigilant and read the ingredient labels carefully, especially when purchasing products marketed for low-sugar or keto diets. While generally well-tolerated and safe for moderate consumption, especially compared to some other sugar alcohols, awareness of the brands and products that contain it allows for more informed dietary choices.