Maltitol

What Is Maltitol?

Maltitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) sweetener made from starch that provides sweetness very close to sugar. It is available as a white crystal or syrup and is one of the sugar alcohols that most closely resembles table sugar in taste and texture.

Because it behaves similarly to sugar, it is commonly used in place of sugar, especially in sugar-free chocolate, candy, cookies, and baked goods. It affects blood sugar less than sugar and provides fewer calories per gram.

Maltitol Nutrition

As a sugar alcohol, maltitol provides about 210 kcal per 100 grams (about 2.1 kcal per gram), less than table sugar. It contains no fat and has a sweetness close to sugar.

How Should Maltitol Be Used?

Since consuming large amounts of maltitol can cause gas, bloating, and a laxative effect, moderate use is recommended; for this reason, the amount in prepared products is limited.

This information is general; maltitol is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. Moderate consumption is recommended.

How to Choose Maltitol

Good maltitol is a dry, clean, unclumped white crystal or clear syrup; damp, clumped samples should be avoided.

• Crystals should be dry, white, and free of clumps.
• The syrup form should be clear.
• Moisture and clumping are undesirable.

How to Store Maltitol

Store maltitol for a long time in a sealed jar in a dry place; a dry environment is important because moisture can cause clumping. Keep the syrup form sealed in a cool place.

How to Use Maltitol in the Kitchen?

Maltitol is used in amounts close to sugar to sweeten sugar-free chocolate, candy, cookies, cakes, and beverages; its ability to provide texture makes it a good substitute for sugar. It is heat-stable and can also be used in cooking and baking.

How to Use Maltitol Instead of Sugar

In most recipes, use it in an amount close to sugar (approximately a one-to-one ratio); however, keep the amount moderate because too much may have a laxative effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between maltitol and xylitol?

Both are sugar alcohols; maltitol has a calorie content close to xylitol and is more similar to sugar in texture. Excessive intake of both may have a laxative effect.

Does maltitol affect blood sugar?

It affects blood sugar less than sugar; however, it may raise blood sugar somewhat more than some other sugar alcohols, so it is used in moderation.

Does maltitol break down during cooking?

It is relatively heat-stable and can be used in cooking and baking; since it behaves similarly to sugar, it works well in many recipes.