The Sweet Secret: Hershey's Zero Sugar and Maltitol
For decades, Hershey's has been a household name in chocolate. In recent years, the company has expanded its offerings to include a Zero Sugar line, allowing consumers to enjoy the familiar taste with less sugar. The sweetening agent behind this change is primarily maltitol, a sugar alcohol. Understanding what maltitol is and how it functions is key to knowing what you're consuming when you reach for a Zero Sugar Hershey's bar.
What Exactly is Maltitol?
Maltitol is a type of sugar alcohol, or polyol, that provides a sweet taste with fewer calories than regular sugar. It is not metabolized by the body in the same way as sucrose, which means it doesn't cause the same sharp spike in blood sugar levels. This is why it is often used in products aimed at individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes or following a low-carb diet. However, it is important to note that while it has a lower glycemic index than table sugar, it still has an impact on blood glucose, unlike some other zero-calorie sweeteners.
Potential Effects and Considerations of Maltitol
While maltitol is a popular sugar alternative, it is not without its considerations. Some people are more sensitive to sugar alcohols than others, and excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress, such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. For this reason, many Zero Sugar products contain a warning label about the potential for a laxative effect if consumed in large quantities. In fact, some sources, like ketogenic.com, caution that maltitol can still cause a glycemic response that could potentially interfere with a strict ketogenic diet.
A list of common side effects associated with high maltitol consumption includes:
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Digestive discomfort
To minimize these effects, it is recommended to enjoy Zero Sugar candy in moderation, as Hershey's itself suggests.
Beyond Maltitol: A Look at Other Ingredients
While maltitol is the primary sweetener, it is not the only ingredient contributing to the final product. A typical ingredient list for a Hershey's Zero Sugar chocolate bar includes other components to achieve the right texture, creaminess, and flavor. For example, some products also contain polydextrose, a type of fiber.
Here is a list of other common ingredients found in various Hershey's Zero Sugar products:
- Vegetable Oil: Includes palm, shea, sunflower, palm kernel, and/or safflower oil.
- Polydextrose: A food ingredient classified as a soluble fiber.
- Lecithin (Soy): An emulsifier that helps bind the ingredients together.
- PGPR: Another emulsifier that improves the texture and flow of the chocolate.
- Natural & Artificial Flavor: Used to achieve the classic taste.
- Sodium Caseinate (Milk): A milk protein derivative.
Maltitol vs. Other Sweeteners
To truly understand the choice of maltitol, it helps to compare it to other sugar alternatives. The market for sugar-free and low-carb products is vast, and many companies use different approaches. Hershey's competitor, Lily's chocolate, for example, uses stevia as a sweetener.
Sweetener Comparison Table
| Feature | Maltitol (Hershey's Zero Sugar) | Stevia (Lily's Chocolate) | Erythritol (Common in Keto Products) | Regular Sugar (Sucrose) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Sugar Alcohol | Plant-based Sweetener | Sugar Alcohol | Simple Carbohydrate |
| Calories | ~2-3 calories/gram (fewer than sugar) | 0 calories/gram | 0 calories/gram | 4 calories/gram |
| Glycemic Impact | Low to moderate; does raise blood sugar. | Minimal to zero; does not raise blood sugar. | Minimal to zero; does not raise blood sugar. | High; causes sharp blood sugar spike. |
| Digestive Effect | Can cause GI issues in some people, laxative effect. | Generally well-tolerated. | Less likely to cause GI issues than maltitol. | Generally well-tolerated in moderate amounts. |
| Taste | Very similar to sugar, with minimal aftertaste. | Can have a slight lingering aftertaste. | Clean, sweet taste. | Classic sweet taste. |
| Keto Friendliness | Not strictly keto-friendly due to glycemic response. | Highly keto-friendly. | Highly keto-friendly. | Not keto-friendly. |
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
While Hershey's Zero Sugar delivers a familiar chocolate flavor without added sugar, the sweetening comes from maltitol, a sugar alcohol with potential digestive side effects and a glycemic impact that makes it unsuitable for a strict keto diet. For those simply looking to reduce their sugar intake without an overly noticeable flavor change, it can be a good option when consumed in moderation. However, individuals managing specific health conditions like diabetes, or following a ketogenic diet, should carefully consider the effects of maltitol and may prefer products sweetened with erythritol or stevia. Ultimately, checking the ingredient list and being aware of the properties of the sweetener is the most informed way to enjoy a sweet treat. You can find more information on their ingredients at the Hershey's company website.
