Sorbitol

Sorbitol is a naturally occurring polyol (sugar alcohol) found in berries of the rowan tree, apples, pears and prunes. Its name derives from the botanical genus Sorbus, though it is now largely produced industrially through the hydrogenation of glucose. Its sweetening power is approximately half that of sucrose, making it a valued bulk sweetener in formulations aimed at reducing sugar content. Its caloric contribution is also lower (around 2.6 kcal/g compared with 4 kcal/g for sucrose), and it is metabolised without causing a significant glycaemic spike. Sorbitol also has hygroscopic properties that help retain moisture and texture in certain preparations. In dietary supplements, it is primarily used as an excipient — a bulking agent, humectant or sweetener in tablets, capsules and other dosage forms. However, when consumed in excessive amounts, it can have a laxative effect, which is why the quantities used in formulations are generally kept moderate.