E965 in food refers to Maltitol, a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sugar substitute due to its sweet taste and beneficial properties.
Maltitol (E965) is an approved food additive in the European Union, functioning primarily as a bulk sweetener. It offers a sweet taste similar to sugar but with fewer calories, making it a popular choice for various food and beverage applications aiming for reduced sugar content.
Understanding Maltitol (E965)
Maltitol is derived from maltose, a disaccharide sugar, through a process called hydrogenation. It is part of the broader category of polyols, or sugar alcohols, which are widely used in the food industry.
Key Characteristics of Maltitol (E965):
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Caloric Content | Approximately 2.4 kcal/g, significantly less than sugar's 4 kcal/g. |
| Sweetness | Roughly 90% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar). |
| Blood Glucose | Can help control blood glucose response due to its lower glycemic index. |
| Dental Health | Non-cariogenic, meaning it does not promote tooth decay. |
| Texture & Bulk | Provides bulk and texture similar to sugar, important in confectionery. |
| Regulatory Status | Approved as a food additive (E965) in the EU and widely recognized globally. |
Why is Maltitol (E965) Used in Food?
Food manufacturers utilize E965 for several compelling reasons, primarily centered around health and quality attributes:
- Sugar Reduction: It allows for the creation of "sugar-free," "reduced sugar," or "no added sugar" products, catering to health-conscious consumers and those managing specific dietary needs like diabetes.
- Calorie Control: With fewer calories than sugar, Maltitol contributes to lower-calorie versions of popular treats, aiding in weight management.
- Tooth-Friendly Products: Its non-cariogenic nature makes it an excellent ingredient for dental health-focused products such as chewing gum, candies, and oral care items.
- Taste and Texture: Maltitol mimics sugar's mouthfeel and taste profile effectively, ensuring that reduced-sugar products don't compromise on sensory quality. It provides the desired bulk and creaminess in chocolates and baked goods.
Common Food Applications of E965
Maltitol (E965) is a versatile ingredient found in a wide array of food products:
- Sugar-Free Confectionery:
- Chocolates and chocolate coatings
- Hard candies and chewy candies
- Chewing gum
- Caramels
- Baked Goods:
- Biscuits and cookies
- Cakes and pastries
- Breads (certain types)
- Dairy Products:
- Ice cream
- Yogurt
- Other Products:
- Dessert mixes
- Protein bars
- Jams and jellies (sugar-free variants)
- Nutritional supplements
For instance, a sugar-free chocolate bar might list Maltitol (E965) as its primary sweetener to achieve a rich, sweet taste without the added sugars or the caloric load of traditional chocolate.
Potential Considerations
While Maltitol offers numerous benefits, it's worth noting that, like other sugar alcohols, excessive consumption can sometimes lead to a laxative effect in sensitive individuals. This is generally mitigated by incorporating it into balanced formulations and including advisory labeling on products.
