Comparing E966 - Lactitol vs E967 - Xylitol

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Overview

E966 - Lactitol

Lactitol (E966) is a sugar alcohol used to sweeten and add bulk to foods with fewer calories than table sugar. It tastes mildly sweet, is heat‑stable, and is common in sugar‑free candies, chocolate, and baked goods. Like other polyols, eating a lot at once can cause gas or a laxative effect.

E967 - Xylitol

Xylitol (E967) is a sugar alcohol used to sweeten foods with fewer calories than table sugar and without adding a strong aftertaste. It also helps keep products moist and stable, which is why it shows up in sugar‑free gum, mints, and some baked goods. It is not safe for dogs, so keep xylitol‑containing products out of their reach.

Synonyms

E966

Lactitol

Lactit

Lactositol

E967

Xylitol

Functions

bulking agent sweetener

humectant sweetener

Origins

Products

Found in 75 products

Found in 955 products

Search rank & volume

#350310 / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#13103K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×0.63

under-aware

×15.69

over-aware

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 4 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

Fao/who expert committee of food additives 1983 lactitol?
In 1983, JECFA (FAO/WHO) evaluated lactitol and assigned an ADI “not specified,” reflecting low toxicity; they noted that high intakes can cause typical polyol-related gastrointestinal effects (gas, laxation).
How is lactitol digested?
It is poorly absorbed in the small intestine and is fermented by colonic bacteria to short‑chain fatty acids and gases, providing about 2 kcal/g and producing an osmotic/laxative effect at higher intakes.
How is lactitol formed?
Lactitol is formed by catalytic hydrogenation of lactose, reducing the glucose moiety to sorbitol to yield the disaccharide alcohol 4‑O‑β‑D‑galactopyranosyl‑D‑sorbitol.
How is lactitol made?
Industrial production hydrogenates lactose (often from whey) under pressure over a nickel catalyst, then purifies and crystallizes it as lactitol monohydrate or concentrates it into a syrup.
Lactitol monohydrate syrup how to use?
Use orally as labeled for constipation: typically start around 10–20 g once daily and adjust to achieve a soft stool, taking with meals or water. Expect possible gas and bloating; follow product instructions and seek medical advice for children, pregnancy, or if symptoms persist.