What is Polyol?
Polyols, also known as sugar alcohols, are a type of carbohydrate commonly used as sweeteners in food products. Despite their name, they are neither sugars nor alcohols in the traditional sense. Polyols occur naturally in some fruits and vegetables, but they can also be produced through industrial processes.
Here are some common properties of polyols:
- Sweetness and Caloric Content: Polyols are sweet in taste and provide fewer calories compared to regular sugar. They have a lower caloric value because they are not fully absorbed by the body, resulting in fewer calories per gram. The caloric content of polyols varies, but they generally provide around 2 to 3 calories per gram, compared to 4 calories per gram for sugar.
- Digestion and Absorption: Polyols are incompletely digested and absorbed in the small intestine. As a result, they have a reduced impact on blood sugar levels and insulin response. This makes them suitable for individuals with diabetes or those following a low-glycemic or controlled-carbohydrate diet.
- Reduced Cariogenic Potential: Polyols are less cariogenic (tooth decay-causing) than regular sugar. They are not readily fermented by oral bacteria, which reduces the production of acids that can damage tooth enamel.
- Texture and Mouthfeel: Polyols can contribute to the texture, bulk, and mouthfeel of food products. They can add moisture, enhance chewiness, and provide a cooling effect in certain applications.
- Laxative Effect: Some polyols, such as sorbitol and mannitol, can have a laxative effect when consumed in large amounts. This is because they are not fully absorbed in the small intestine and can draw water into the colon, resulting in softer stools or diarrhea. However, the laxative effect varies depending on the individual's tolerance and the amount consumed.
Common polyols used in food products include sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, polydextrose and maltitol. They can be found in a range of products labeled as "sugar-free," "no sugar added," or "reduced sugar," such as chewing gum, candies, baked goods, and beverages. It's important to note that excessive consumption of polyols may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, so it's advisable to consume them in moderation.
Product we offer:
o Xylitol: Fine Powder, DC and Organic
o Erythritol: Fine Powder, Granular and Organic
o Maltitol: Fine powder, Granular, liquid
o Allulose, Liquid, granular and fine powder
o Mannitol: Fine powder and granular
o Sorbitol: Liquid, Powder, granular and DC
o Polydextrose: Liquid, powder, Low Sugar
o Isomalt: Fine Powder and granular
