Despite the fact that most average consumers associate mannitol with a nutritional category of supplements, in fact, its range of applications is much wider.
The mention of E421 can also be found on the labels of various chemicals. It is used even as part of complex-component complexes in the processing industries. Some argue that it is even added to Combigripp and pharmaceutical products similar in their spectrum of action.
Main characteristics
The presented sweetener belongs to the camp of stabilizers. The physical characteristics of the substance provide for unremarkable colorless crystals. There is no pronounced aroma here, but at the same time, the product tastes a little sweet.
From a biological point of view, the basis for the additive is only mannitol, which belongs to hexahydric alcohols-aldehydes. In the classification of chemical components, it goes under the name mannitol.
Often, a similar ingredient is used in cases where it is necessary to generate an explosive mixture. It has also found wide application in the construction industry, where it is added to various varnishes, paints, varnishes and other types of surface compounds designed to protect the canvas.
E421 is highly valued for its ability to consistently maintain the required viscosity level of a ready-to-use solution or a mass of any other consistency. With its help, it is possible to maintain a mature texture for a long time, observing the requirements for storage conditions.
In food products, a food additive is most often positioned as a sugar substitute. This is especially true in cases where the manufacturer specializes in the production of diet food. The calorie content of this component is much lower than that of classic sugar, for which manufacturers fell in love with it.
An additional advantage is the ability to guarantee the absence of lumps in ready-made mixtures or fermented milk products. The stabilizer controls the caking process, making the effects of long-term storage less noticeable on the final product.
Another sub-category of use is added to chewing gums and confectionery. For the latter, it is used as an effective baking powder.
Consequences of use
Since many consumers have heard that food substitutes for natural ingredients are harmful, they are interested in what effect the stabilizer has on the body.
Mannitol has been officially included in the list of permitted additives for use in various areas of the food industry.
During the experiments, the researchers deduced the average daily allowance, the excess of which can harm well-being. Especially if the dosage is exceeded on a regular basis.
But if you follow the medical recommendations, then there will be no serious deviations in terms of the functioning of the body. The only serious warning is the risk of exacerbation of the development of renal diseases. This applies not only to cases of exceeding the dosage, but also to consumers who have already had any, even minor, deviations in terms of the work of this internal organ. In this case, the development of the disease will occur much faster.
It is also worth paying attention to this component as part of your favorite purchases made in the confectionery department, for those who have problems with blood circulation. Mannitol is capable, under certain unfavorable circumstances, of exacerbating diseases in this area.