Sorbitol
Sorbitol, also known as D-glucitol, is a white crystalline powder or colorless syrup with the formula C6H14O6 and molecular weight 182.17 g/mol. It is a polyhydric alcohol with about half the sweetness of sucrose, highly soluble in water (up to 2350 g/L at 25°C), and insoluble in most organic solvents. Hygroscopic with a melting point of 95°C, it occurs naturally in fruits and is produced synthetically from glucose via hydrogenation.
Sorbitol
Used as a sweetener and humectant in food processing, pharmaceuticals for laxatives and excipients, cosmetics for moisture retention, and in polyurethane foams for flame retardancy; also serves as a bacterial culture supplement in media preparation.
Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) with low toxicity; may cause gastrointestinal upset in high doses. Nonflammable and noncorrosive; avoid dust inhalation which irritates nose and throat. Use PPE; stable but incompatible with strong oxidizers.
Typically in 25kg polypropylene bags or fiber drums with PE liners; store tightly closed in dry, cool, ventilated areas; rinse containers for recycling or dispose in sanitary landfills per regulations.
