What sugar substitute does not contain erythritol?

December 2, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2023 study, high levels of erythritol have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. This prompts many consumers to seek what sugar substitute does not contain erythritol. Several alternatives exist for those seeking to avoid this popular sugar alcohol, from natural plant-based options to other non-nutritive sweeteners.

Quick Summary

Sugar substitutes without erythritol include pure stevia, allulose, monk fruit extract, xylitol, and sucralose. They offer varied sweetness and suit different dietary needs, such as baking or sweetening beverages. Some are natural, others synthesized, each with distinct benefits.

Key Points

Allulose: A naturally occurring 'rare sugar' found in figs and dates that bakes and browns like sugar without the caloric or glycemic impact.
Pure Stevia: A calorie-free, plant-based sweetener that does not affect blood sugar, but requires checking labels as it is often blended with erythritol.
Pure Monk Fruit Extract: A zero-calorie, intensely sweet natural option derived from monk fruit, though vigilance is needed to avoid erythritol blends.
Sucralose (Pure): An artificial, zero-calorie sweetener stable for baking that does not contain erythritol, unlike some other sugar substitutes.
Xylitol: A sugar alcohol with fewer calories than sugar and dental benefits, but can cause digestive issues and is highly toxic to dogs.
Label Reading: It is crucial to read ingredient lists carefully, as many products marketed as 'natural' or 'keto' blends often include erythritol.

Erythritol and the Search for Alternatives

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol known for its sugar-like taste and zero-calorie properties, making it popular for low-carb diets. Recent health concerns have pushed consumers to seek safer, erythritol-free options. Many commercial sweeteners, particularly blends marketed for keto baking, often use erythritol as a bulking agent. Finding a replacement requires careful label reading and understanding the alternatives available.

Popular Erythritol-Free Sweeteners

Consumers have several excellent choices when searching for a sugar substitute that does not contain erythritol. These options can be categorized into natural and artificial sweeteners, each with unique characteristics.

Allulose: A rare sugar found naturally in small quantities in figs, raisins, and jackfruit. Allulose has a similar texture to sugar and is a fantastic choice for baking because it caramelizes and browns. It is a keto-friendly sweetener that has zero net carbs and does not spike blood sugar or insulin levels. A non-GMO, vegan, and gluten-free option, allulose is well-tolerated digestively.
Pure Stevia: Derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, pure stevia extract is calorie-free and extremely sweet. It's suitable for diabetics and low-carb diets because it has a zero glycemic index. However, many commercial stevia products are blended with erythritol, so choosing pure liquid or powdered stevia is essential. It is useful for sweetening beverages but might not be the best for baking due to its concentrated sweetness.
Pure Monk Fruit Extract: Sourced from the monk fruit (luo han guo), this extract contains compounds called mogrosides that provide intense sweetness with zero calories and zero glycemic impact. Like stevia, pure monk fruit extract must be carefully selected, as many products are blended with erythritol. It works well in a variety of foods and beverages and does not have the bitter aftertaste associated with some other sweeteners.
Sucralose: A high-intensity artificial sweetener, sucralose is about 600 times sweeter than sugar and is stable when heated, making it suitable for baking. Found under the brand name Splenda, pure sucralose does not contain erythritol. It is a zero-calorie option, but it has some controversies, and some people may experience side effects like headaches or digestive issues.
Xylitol: As another sugar alcohol, xylitol is derived from plants like corn cobs. It has a sweetness level similar to sugar but fewer calories. Xylitol is known for its benefits for dental health and is often found in sugar-free gum. It can, however, cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities and is toxic to dogs.
Natural Syrup Sweeteners: For those not strictly watching carbohydrates, maple syrup, honey, and agave nectar are natural, unrefined options. They contain nutrients but are high in calories and can impact blood sugar levels.

Comparison Table of Erythritol-Free Sweeteners


Feature	Pure Allulose	Pure Stevia	Pure Monk Fruit	Pure Sucralose	Xylitol	Maple Syrup	Honey
Source	Natural (figs, dates)	Natural (stevia plant)	Natural (monk fruit)	Artificial (sucrose)	Natural (corn, birch)	Natural (maple tree sap)	Natural (honeybees)
Calories	Almost zero	Zero	Zero	Zero	Fewer than sugar	High	High
Glycemic Impact	Zero	Zero	Zero	Zero	Low	Low	Low
Best For	Baking, beverages	Beverages, desserts	Beverages, desserts	Baking, beverages	Chewing gum, candies	Toppings, baking	Toppings, drinks
Considerations	Not ideal for keto volume baking	Can have bitter aftertaste	Often blended with erythritol	Digestive issues, controversies	Digestive issues, toxic to dogs	Higher calories, limited use	Not vegan, high in calories

How to Choose the Right Substitute

Selecting the best erythritol-free sugar substitute depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:

Dietary Goals: Are you following a low-carb or keto diet? Zero-glycemic options like pure allulose, stevia, or monk fruit extract are the safest choices. If calories are a concern, avoid natural syrups like honey and maple syrup.
Intended Use: For baking, allulose is a top contender because it mimics sugar's properties best, including browning and caramelizing. Liquid stevia or monk fruit extracts are excellent for beverages and sauces but do not provide the bulk for baking.
Potential Side Effects: Sugar alcohols like xylitol can cause digestive upset in some people. If you have a sensitive stomach, sticking with allulose, pure monk fruit, or stevia may be a better option.
Natural vs. Artificial: For those who prefer naturally-derived sweeteners, pure stevia, monk fruit, and allulose are the best non-caloric options. Artificial sweeteners like sucralose offer consistency but are not from a natural source.
Read Labels Carefully: Be vigilant when purchasing, especially with products that market themselves as 'stevia' or 'monk fruit'. Many brands combine these high-intensity sweeteners with erythritol to improve flavor and texture. Check the ingredients list for erythritol or other unwanted additives before buying.

Conclusion

While erythritol has been a popular sugar alcohol, alternatives are widely available for those who prefer to avoid it for health or dietary reasons. Pure stevia, allulose, and pure monk fruit extract are excellent zero-calorie, zero-glycemic options. Xylitol and sucralose also provide erythritol-free alternatives, though with different considerations. By understanding the properties and nuances of each substitute, consumers can make informed decisions to suit their health needs and culinary preferences, all while avoiding erythritol completely. Reading labels remains the most important step to ensure the product is truly free of erythritol.

Additional Resources

For those interested in the science behind sweeteners and dietary recommendations, the following resource provides further information: Johns Hopkins Medicine Facts About Sugar and Sugar Substitutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, allulose is a safe and popular substitute for erythritol. It is a 'rare sugar' that has zero net carbs, no glycemic impact, and is well-tolerated by most people, unlike some sugar alcohols.

Some Stevia In The Raw products are specifically labeled as containing no erythritol, but you must always check the specific product label. The Stevia In The Raw packets, for example, list dextrose and stevia leaf extract.

To find monk fruit sweetener without erythritol, look for products that explicitly state "pure monk fruit extract" or "no erythritol" on the label. Many commercial brands use erythritol as a filler, so always check the ingredients list.

Some Splenda products, particularly the original yellow packets, do not contain erythritol and are based on sucralose. However, other Splenda-branded products might use erythritol in their blends, so checking the specific package is necessary.

The best erythritol-free sweeteners for baking include allulose, which measures and browns like sugar, and certain pure monk fruit or stevia extracts. Allulose is particularly favored for its texture and performance in baked goods.

Yes, agave nectar and pure maple syrup are naturally erythritol-free. These are natural liquid sweeteners, but they contain calories and natural sugars, so they should be used in moderation, especially for those watching their blood sugar.

While generally considered safe, some people experience gastrointestinal issues like bloating, cramping, and diarrhea from erythritol consumption. Additionally, recent studies have linked high circulating levels of erythritol to an increased risk of cardiovascular events, leading some to seek alternatives.