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Why are sorbitol and mannitol used as sweetening agents?
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Sorbitol and mannitol are sugar alcoholsāalso known as alditolsāproduced by the reduction of monosaccharides like glucose and mannose. They are widely utilized as sweetening agents in various food products.12
Their use is driven by several functional advantages:
- Stability and Texture: Mannitol is particularly valued in chewing gum and candies because it has limited water solubility, allowing it to remain powdery and granular even during long-term storage.1
- Health Benefits: As nutritive sweeteners, they are often used in sugar-free products to help minimize the risk of dental caries (tooth decay).3
- Versatility: These compounds are frequently incorporated into low-calorie foods, oral hygiene products, and items designed for individuals managing conditions like diabetes mellitus.43
While they provide sweetness, they are distinct from nonnutritive sweeteners, which often require additional bulking agents to maintain the desired texture and viscosity in food manufacturing.3