Polyglycitol syrup
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Description
The food additive E964, known as polyglycitol syrup, is a sweetener belonging to the group of polyols (sugar alcohols). It is obtained industrially by catalytic hydrogenation of a mixture of maltose, sorbitol, and other oligosaccharides derived from hydrolyzed starch. The process involves subjecting the mixture to high pressure and temperature in the presence of a nickel catalyst, which reduces carbonyl groups to hydroxyl groups, resulting in a complex mixture of polyols.
The resulting syrup is a viscous, colorless or slightly yellowish liquid, with a sweetness approximately 60-70% of table sugar (sucrose). It is hygroscopic and soluble in water, with a low caloric value (approximately 2.4 kcal/g) and non-cariogenic, as it is not fermented by oral bacteria. Its main function is to sweeten, but it also acts as a humectant, texturizer, and bulking agent in reduced-calorie or sugar-free foods.
It was approved as a food additive in the European Union in 2006, following evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). EFSA, in its 2016 opinion, established that it is not necessary to set a specific acceptable daily intake (ADI), as its consumption at normal levels does not pose a health risk. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have also evaluated it, concluding that it is safe under the authorized conditions of use.
In labeling, it must be listed as 'polyglycitol syrup' or with its E number. Although well tolerated, excessive consumption may cause laxative effects due to its incomplete absorption in the small intestine. Overall, E964 is considered a safe additive and widely used in the food industry to replace sugar in dietetic products.
E964 is mainly used as a sweetener and bulking agent in reduced-calorie or no-added-sugar foods. According to Regulation EC 1333/2008, it is authorized in the European Union for use in various food categories, such as sugar-free chewing gum (up to 100 g/kg), hard and soft candies (up to 100 g/kg), dairy desserts (up to 100 g/kg), ice cream (up to 100 g/kg), jams and marmalades (up to 100 g/kg), and fine bakery products (up to 100 g/kg). It is also used in non-alcoholic beverages (up to 30 g/L) and food supplements.
In the Spanish market, it is found in sugar-free chewing gum (e.g., Orbit), hard candies (e.g., Smint), light dairy desserts (e.g., sweetened yogurts), no-added-sugar ice cream, and low-calorie jams. In the United States, the FDA has approved it as a sweetener and bulking agent in foods, with limits similar to European ones. In Japan, its use is permitted in confectionery and desserts. Authorized limits vary by category but generally do not exceed 100 g/kg. EFSA has confirmed that these levels are safe for the general population.
E964 is generally well tolerated, but excessive consumption may cause laxative effects, such as diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort, due to its incomplete absorption in the small intestine and subsequent fermentation by the gut microbiota. Human studies have shown that doses above 50 g/day can induce these symptoms, although sensitivity varies among individuals.
The biological mechanism involves unabsorbed polyols increasing osmotic pressure in the colon, attracting water and stimulating peristalsis. More sensitive populations include young children and people with digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.
No significant interactions with medications have been documented. EFSA and JECFA conclude that, in amounts normally consumed in the diet, E964 does not pose a health risk. No numerical ADI has been established, as estimated consumption levels are well below thresholds that cause adverse effects. Compared to other polyols, such as sorbitol or xylitol, polyglycitol syrup has a similar or slightly lower laxative effect.
In summary, it is considered safe for the general consumer when used within authorized limits.
- Hydrogenated polyglycitol syrup
- Polyglycitol
- Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate
- Liquid maltitol
- Maltitol syrup
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