What Is Lactitol and How Is It Used as a Low-Calorie Sugar Substitute in Foods and Pharmaceuticals?

Lactitol is a sugar alcohol derived from lactose, known for its mild sweetness and low caloric value. It is widely used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free foods, confectionery, and pharmaceuticals. With about 30–40% of the sweetness of sucrose, Lactitol provides bulk and texture similar to sugar, making it ideal for formulating reduced-calorie products.

Composition and Properties

Lactitol is produced by the hydrogenation of lactose, resulting in a stable polyol.

• Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₂₄O₁₁

• Sweetness: 30–40% of sucrose

• Calories: ~2 kcal/g (half that of sugar)

• Appearance: White, crystalline powder or granules

• Solubility: Freely soluble in water

• Stability: Heat- and acid-stable, ideal for cooking and baking

Key Benefits and Functions

1. Low-Calorie Sweetener
   Reduces calorie intake while maintaining bulk similar to sugar.

2. Tooth-Friendly
   Non-cariogenic and does not promote tooth decay.

3. Diabetic-Friendly
   Low glycemic index, suitable for individuals managing blood sugar.

4. Functional Bulk Agent
   Provides texture and volume in sugar-free foods, unlike high-intensity sweeteners.

Applications of Lactitol

• Food Industry:

  • Sugar-free chocolates, candies, and baked goods

  • Reduced-calorie ice creams and desserts

  • Sweetener in diabetic-friendly foods

• Pharmaceuticals:

  • Excipient and bulking agent in tablets and syrups

  • Laxative effect in some medical applications (similar to lactulose)

• Other Uses:

  • Functional ingredient in health and nutritional supplements

Specifications

• Low-calorie and sugar-free sweetener

• Suitable for diabetics and weight management

• Excellent bulk and mouthfeel similar to sugar

• Heat-stable for baking and cooking

Limitations

• Excessive intake may cause mild laxative effects

• Lower sweetness intensity may require blending with other sweeteners

• Derived from milk sugar (lactose), unsuitable for those with severe lactose intolerance

FAQs

Q1: Is Lactitol safe for consumption?
Yes, it is approved globally (E966) and recognized as safe for food and pharmaceutical use.

Q2: Does Lactitol affect blood sugar levels?
It has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for diabetic-friendly diets.

Q3: Can it be used in baking?
Yes, Lactitol is heat-stable and ideal for baked goods, unlike some artificial sweeteners.

Q4: Does it cause digestive issues?
Large amounts may have a mild laxative effect due to its partial digestion in the gut.

Q5: Is Lactitol vegan-friendly?
It is derived from lactose (milk sugar), so it is not suitable for strict vegan diets.