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Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup (Sorbitol, Glucitol, Sorbitol, Sorbitol Syrup, E420)
Sorbitol (from lat. Sorbus-mountain ash) or sorbitol syrup is usually called a food additive that is part of the group of thickeners and emulsifiers. In the international classification, the substance is assigned the index E420, the additive has the properties of a sweetener and a moisture-retaining agent.
General characteristics of Sorbitol
Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup looks like a white powder, small transparent crystals or thick syrup, has no smell, tastes sweet with a metallic aftertaste (calorizator). The substance is well soluble in water and alcohol. Chemical formula C6H14O6.
The main supplier of natural sorbitol is mountain ash, from the berries of which sorbitol was first isolated in 1868, and some sorbitol contains apricots, apples, blackthorn, dogwood, hawthorn and some types of seaweed. Sorbitol of chemical origin – an intermediate product of the synthesis of ascorbic acid, is released from glucose during the hydrogenation process. The human body is able to produce sorbitol independently.
Benefits and harms of E420
Regular sugar is almost twice as sweet as Sorbitol, so the use of sorbitol is recommended for people with diabetes. The substance has the property of stimulating the secretion of gastric juice and significantly improving the outflow of bile, the body absorbs sorbitol faster than glucose, while not requiring insulin. Sorbitol syrup partially replaces B vitamins, thereby reducing the need for them. Sorbitol has a laxative property, so it is often included in medicines or dietary supplements that have a laxative effect. It should be known that an increase in the dose of sorbitol leads to severe flatulence.
The daily rate of consumption of sorbitol is not officially established, but doctors do not recommend exceeding the dose of 30-40 g per day, otherwise such unpleasant symptoms as heartburn, nausea, dizziness and the occurrence of allergic reactions are possible. E420 is a high-calorie product, so those who follow the weight, you need to use it with caution, or completely abandon the supplement. Contraindication for the use of sorbitol is the age of up to 1 year.
Application of E420
Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup is used in the food industry as a sweetener, complexing agent and texturator in the production of confectionery and bakery products, as a moisture-retaining agent-mainly in the processing of meat products. The main application of E420 is food for diabetics: chocolate, jams,breakfast cereals and low-calorie ice cream.
Sorbitol is a part of sauces, mustard, jellies and desserts, some liqueurs, and many dietary supplements. In addition to the food industry, sorbitol is used in cosmetology and the production of shampoos, toothpastes, cigarettes, in pharmacology and paint production.
Use of E420
On the territory of our country, it is allowed to use E420 as a food additive-sweetener and emulsifier.