Ingredient

Sugar Alcohol

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sugar alcohols are commonly used as low-calorie sweeteners in sugar-free and reduced-sugar products like …

What it is

Sugar alcohols, also known as polyols, are a type of carbohydrate that are chemically similar to both sugar and alcohol, but they do not contain ethanol. They occur naturally in some fruits and vegetables, but are often manufactured by combining sugars with hydrogen. Examples include sorbitol, xylitol, and erythritol.

Why it's used

Sugar alcohols are commonly used as low-calorie sweeteners in sugar-free and reduced-sugar products like baked goods, candies, and chewing gum. They can also act as humectants, helping foods retain moisture, and as bulking agents, providing texture and volume.

Health notes

Sugar alcohols are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. They are incompletely absorbed in the small intestine, which can lead to a laxative effect and digestive discomfort, such as gas and bloating, in some individuals, especially when consumed in large amounts. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sugar alcohols, and their regulatory status is well-established. Evidence does not suggest they cause disease, but digestive side effects are common.

Allergen info

Sugar alcohols are not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Sugar Alcohol

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British Wholesale Imports, Inc. Luxury Milk And Dark Chocolate Truffles With The Delicious Taste Of Guinness Chocolate High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 505kcal 4.5Protein 27.3Fat 50Carbs Genji, Inc. Louisiana Roll Qbr, Louisiana Sushi High in sodium — 61% DV per serving 142kcal 3.4Protein 5.7Fat 20.2Carbs Genji, Inc. Very Veggie Platter Sm Br, Very Veggie Sushi High in sodium — 73% DV per serving 142kcal 2.2Protein 4.4Fat 24.0Carbs Genji, Inc. Wisconsin Roll Qbr, Wisconsin Sushi High in sodium — 61% DV per serving 142kcal 3.4Protein 5.7Fat 20.2Carbs Genji, Inc. My Tofu Sweetness Burrito Wr, My Tofu Sweetness Sushi High in sodium — 32% DV per serving 168kcal 3.2Protein 3.2Fat 31.6Carbs Genji, Inc. Fusion Special Wr, Fusion Sushi High in sodium — 31% DV per serving 155kcal 7.3Protein 3.4Fat 24.5Carbs Genji, Inc. Spicy Salmon Salad Rice Bowl Wr, Spicy Salmon Sushi High in sodium — 45% DV per serving 157kcal 4.7Protein 4.7Fat 24.8Carbs Genji, Inc. 12Pc Vegetarian Roll Combo Qbr, Vegetarian Sushi High in sodium — 53% DV per serving 162kcal 2.6Protein 7.3Fat 23.1Carbs Genji, Inc. New California Roll Qbr, New California Sushi High in sodium — 48% DV per serving 138kcal 3.2Protein 3.6Fat 23.7Carbs Genji, Inc. New York Roll Qbr, New York Sushi High in sodium — 61% DV per serving 142kcal 3.4Protein 5.7Fat 20.2Carbs Genji, Inc. 8Pc Chef's Assorted Nigiri Wr, Chef's Assorted Sushi High in sodium — 27% DV per serving 158kcal 10.7Protein 2.5Fat 23.0Carbs Genji, Inc. Insanity Roll Qbr, Insanity Sushi High in sodium — 56% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 164kcal 6.6Protein 5.6Fat 21.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.