Food Additives Encyclopedia

English

简体中文

English

简体中文

Appearance

isomalt ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese nameisomalt
English nameisomalt
INS/E numberINS 953
Functional classAnticaking agent, Bulking agent, Flavour enhancer, Glazing agent, Stabilizer, Sweetener, Thickener
Year adopted1984
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Isomalt is a sugar alcohol produced from sucrose by enzymatic transformation (mainly α-D-glucopyranosyl-1,6-sorbitol and α-D-glucopyranosyl-1,6-mannitol). It is about half as sweet as sucrose, low in calories and non-cariogenic.

Source ​

Natural：蔗糖

Why is it used? ​

  • Low-calorie, non-cariogenic sweetness
  • Heat-stable and low-hygroscopic, suited to hard candy and baking
  • Prevents crystallisation and improves texture
  • Low glycaemic index, suited to diabetic foods
  • Provides a cooling mouthfeel

Common Foods ​

  • Sugar-free hard and throat lozenges
  • Chocolate and confectionery
  • Bakery products
  • Chewing gum
  • Table-top sweeteners
  • Coatings and decorations

Safety ​

ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)

Concerns：

  • 过量摄入致腹胀、腹泻（与多数糖醇类似）
  • 需标注“过量食用可能引起腹泻”

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 1886.177 食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂 异麦芽酮糖醇

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 953)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1834 (isomalt, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 953)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (953)

In a nutshell ​

Isomalt is a low-calorie sugar-alcohol sweetener made from sucrose; non-cariogenic and ideal for sugar-free confectionery.

Consumer Advice ​

Isomalt is a sugar alcohol sweetener about half as sweet as sugar. It is low in calories, does not raise blood sugar much, and is used in sugar-free candies, gum, and baked goods. It is safe within approved limits, but eating too much may cause bloating or mild diarrhea, so sensitive people should eat it in moderation.

Dietary Restrictions ​

  • Vegan: ✅
  • Halal: ✅
  • Kosher: ✅

Allergens ​

✅ Free from common allergens

Disclaimer ​

The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.