Food Additives Encyclopedia

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lactitol ​

Basic Information ​

FieldContent
Chinese namelactitol
English namelactitol
INS/E numberINS 966
Functional classEmulsifier, Sweetener, Thickener
Year adopted1983
Approved byAustralia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA)

What is it? ​

Lactitol is a sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenating lactose, about 30–40% as sweet as sucrose with very low calories and a very low glycaemic index. It is not fermented by oral bacteria and is non-cariogenic.

Source ​

Natural：乳糖（源自乳清）

Why is it used? ​

  • Low-calorie, non-cariogenic sweetness
  • Bulking agent in sugar-free confectionery
  • Very low glycaemic load for diabetic foods
  • Fermented in the colon with a mild prebiotic effect
  • Heat-stable for baking

Common Foods ​

  • Sugar-free candies and chocolate
  • Bakery products
  • Table-top sweeteners
  • Ice cream
  • Jams and sauces
  • Nutrition bars

Safety ​

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

Concerns：

  • 过量摄入致腹胀、腹泻
  • 需标注“过量食用可能引起腹泻”
  • 乳糖不耐者一般可耐受（已氢化）

Usage Standard ​

China：GB 2760《食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂使用标准》；GB 1886.98 食品安全国家标准 食品添加剂 乳糖醇

International：

  • EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 966)
  • FDA 21 CFR 184.1378 (lactitol, GRAS)
  • Codex GSFA (INS 966)
  • FSANZ Food Standards Code (966)

In a nutshell ​

Lactitol is a very-low-calorie sugar alcohol from hydrogenated lactose; low sweetness, non-cariogenic with a mild prebiotic effect.

Consumer Advice ​

Lactitol is a sugar alcohol made by hydrogenating lactose, about 30-40% as sweet as sugar. It is low in calories and non-cariogenic, and is used in sugar-free candy, ice cream, and low-sugar baked goods. It is safe within approved limits, though excessive intake may cause digestive discomfort or diarrhea. Although made from lactose, the finished product contains almost no lactose, so most lactose-intolerant people can consume 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.