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What is Erythritol?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol. Although naturally found, most of the erythritol is produced artificially by synthesising corn using enzymes and fermentation, hence giving it the synthetic label. It is used as a low-calorie sweetener.
What are the other names this ingredient is also known as?
Erythritol is generally recognized by its name, but it might also be referred to by its brand names like Swerve or Zerose. Additionally, it can be labelled as a sugar alcohol or the assigned number E968. Checking for these terms in ingredient lists can help identify the presence of erythritol in food products.
What products is it used in?
Erythritol, a common sugar substitute, is widely used in sugar-free goodies like ice cream, protein bars, sodas, and fruit spreads. You’ll find it sweetening up candies, gums, cookies, and cakes too as it is more similar to sugar in taste. But it’s not just for treats – erythritol is also in your drinks, sweetening up tea, coffee, and juice blends. Whether in your snacks or sips, it’s a versatile sweetener, perfect for those looking to cut back on sugar without sacrificing taste or adding extra calories to their diet.
What is the source of this ingredient?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that occurs naturally in some fruits and fermented foods. When commercially produced for use as a sweetener, it is typically derived from natural sources like cornstarch through a fermentation process. So, while it undergoes processing, it is generally considered a natural sweetener. This ingredient is also considered vegan and vegetarian as it is derived from corn as a plant based material.
Is this ingredient bad for me?
Use or overuse of this ingredient can lead to abdominal distress, gas, bloating and nausea.
What should I do?
Avoid when possible
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