Xylitol
Birch Sugar, E967, Pentane-1,2,3,4,5-pentol.
- CAS
- 87-99-0
- EC
- 201-788-0
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Pharma & Healthcare, Personal Care & Cosmetics
Xylitol (CAS 87-99-0) is a five-carbon sugar alcohol that appears as a white crystalline powder, with a sweetness comparable to sucrose and roughly 40% fewer calories, and is used as a bulk sweetener in sugar-free confectionery, oral care products and pharmaceutical syrups. This Crystalline Grade ingredient provides a distinct cooling effect in the mouth due to its negative heat of solution.
In industrial applications, it is prized for being non-cariogenic, as it cannot be fermented by dental-decay-causing bacteria. Its low glycemic index (GI 7) makes it a primary choice for diabetic-friendly food formulations and nutritional supplements.
The compound is highly water-soluble and thermally stable, allowing it to be used in various processing conditions without browning (Maillard reaction). It also functions as a Humectant in personal care products, helping to retain moisture in topical formulations.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C5H12O5 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 152.15 g/mol |
| Appearance | white crystalline powder |
| Form | Crystalline Powder |
| Color | White |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. odorless |
| Melting point | 93.5 °C |
| Boiling point | 345 °C |
| Density | 1.374 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | SOLUBLE |
| HS code | 29054900 |
| Grades available | Food Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Xylitol
Applications
- Oral Care: Primarily used in Sugar-Free Chewing Gum and toothpastes to inhibit Streptococcus mutans and promote dental health.
- Dietary Foods: Functions as a Low-Calorie Sweetener in sugar-free confectionery, chocolates, and bakery products for diabetic diets.
- Pharmaceuticals: Utilized as a Sweetening Excipient in chewable tablets and syrups to mask the bitter taste of active pharmaceutical ingredients.
Safety & Risks
Safe for human consumption; however, it is highly toxic to dogs. Industrial handling requires Safety Goggles to prevent mechanical eye irritation. Hazard Classifications: Non-hazardous for industrial handling.
Packaging
Packed in 25 kg PE-lined Paper Bags, or 1000 kg Big Bags for high-volume manufacturing.