Ingredient · Updated
Sorbitol
Found in 22 productsSee all
What is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in some fruits and is also produced synthetically from glucose. It appears as a white crystalline powder or a syrup and is commonly used as a low-calorie sweetener.
Sorbitol is used in various products to provide sweetness with fewer calories than regular sugar. It also acts as a humectant, helping to keep products moist. The health evidence suggests that while sorbitol is generally safe for most people, consuming large amounts may cause digestive discomfort, including gas and diarrhea.
When you see sorbitol on a label, it means the product likely aims to lower sugar content while maintaining sweetness. It's common in sugar-free gums and candies.
Commonly found in: Gum, Body Lotion, Toothpaste, Candy
What to watch
- High consumption may lead to digestive issues such as gas and diarrhea in some people.
Benefits
- Provides sweetness with fewer calories than regular sugar.
- Helps keep products moist as a humectant.
Sorbitol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended use.
Research indicates sorbitol is safe for most people but may cause digestive upset when consumed in large quantities.
Sorbitol is synthetic or plant-derived, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
Scout's take
Sugar alcohol humectant; non-cariogenic and safe to swallow.
The case against
May cause digestive discomfort or laxative effects if consumed in large quantities.
from the analysis of Sunbelt Bakery PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CHIP CHEWY GRANOLA BARS · echoed in 1 other analysisMay cause digestive issues such as bloating and diarrhea when consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Tropicana Slim SteviaExcessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort or laxative effects.
from the analysis of Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8ozThere are minimal risks associated with sorbitol in cleaning products.
from the analysis of Bio-Vert Dishwasher TabletsExcessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
from the analysis of Fiber One 70 Calorie Brownies Chocolate Fudge Snack BarsThe case for
Provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar and has a lower impact on blood sugar levels.
from the analysis of Tropicana Slim Stevia · echoed in 2 other analysesOffers sweetness with fewer calories and a lower glycemic index than sugar.
from the analysis of Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8ozIt helps retain moisture and maintain the consistency of the product.
from the analysis of Bio-Vert Dishwasher TabletsProvides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar.
from the analysis of Sunbelt Bakery PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CHIP CHEWY GRANOLA BARSContributes to skin hydration and smoothness.
from the analysis of Honest Beauty Gentle Gel Cleanser with Chamomile and CalendulaMore from Scout's analyses
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
from the analysis of Mimi Caramelle Sugar Free Fresh MintSorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a humectant and sweetener in toothpaste. It is generally recognized as safe for oral use, but excessive ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
from the analysis of equate XTRA CARE PASTA DENTALSorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant. It is less caloric than sugar but can cause digestive issues in large amounts. Provides sweetness with a lower glycemic impact.
from the analysis of Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8ozAll 22 products with Sorbitol
Where Sorbitol shows up
- Toothpaste 10 products
- Candy 2 products
- Gum 2 products
- Skin Care 1 product
- Dishwasher 1 product
- Artificial Sweeteners 1 product
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