E965
Maltitol
Also known as: Hydrogenated maltose
Components / composition
Sugar alcohol: hydrogenated glucose syrup containing mainly maltitol.
Common usage in food
Bulk sweetener in sugar-free chocolate and confectionery.
Effects on human health
Lower glycemic index than sucrose. Partially absorbed.
Risks & considerations
Laxative effect at high intake. EU polyol labelling requirements apply.
Regulatory approval (EU)
Permitted with polyol consumption warning.
US regulatory status (FDA)
Maltitol is used in the U.S. as a bulk sweetener in sugar-free chocolate and confectionery and is recognized among sugar alcohols in FDA labeling rules. Like other polyols, it has a lower glycemic impact than sucrose but may cause laxative effects at high intake. U.S. Nutrition Facts labels require sugar alcohol declaration when certain claims are made.
Permitted amounts / regulatory limits (EU)
Category limits in Annex II; practical limits from laxative threshold.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
Not specified as numeric ADI.