Product Function
• Low-calorie sweetener: Lactitol provides a sweet taste similar to sucrose but with significantly fewer calories. It is about 40% as sweet as sucrose, allowing people to enjoy a sweet flavor without the same caloric load, which is beneficial for those who need to control calorie intake, such as diabetics and people on weight-loss diets.
• Prebiotic effect: It acts as a prebiotic in the gut, promoting the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria like bifidobacteria. This helps to improve the balance of the gut microbiota, enhancing digestive health and potentially providing protection against certain gastrointestinal disorders.
• Low glycemic index: Lactitol has a low glycemic index, meaning it causes a relatively slow and small increase in blood glucose levels after consumption. This makes it a suitable sweetener for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes, as it helps to manage blood sugar levels more effectively.
• Moisture retention and texture improvement: In food products, lactitol can help retain moisture, improving the texture and shelf life of products such as baked goods, confectionery, and dairy products. It can prevent products from drying out and maintain their softness and chewiness.
Application
• Food and beverage industry: It is widely used in the production of sugar-free or low-sugar foods and beverages, such as chewing gums, candies, chocolates, soft drinks, and dairy products like ice creams and yogurts. In these products, lactitol replaces traditional sugars to reduce calorie content while maintaining the desired taste and texture.
• Pharmaceutical industry: Lactitol is sometimes used in the formulation of certain medications, particularly those intended for oral administration. It can act as a filler, binder, or sweetening agent in tablets and capsules, improving the palatability of the medicine and making it easier for patients to take.
• Dietary supplements: As a prebiotic, lactitol is an ingredient in some dietary supplements designed to support gut health. These supplements aim to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and enhance overall well-being by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
• Cosmetics and personal care products: In some cosmetic and personal care products like toothpaste, mouthwashes, and lip balms, lactitol can be used as a sweetener or flavor enhancer to improve the taste and user experience.