Maltitol

What Is Maltitol?

Maltitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) sweetener derived from starch that gives a sweetness very close to sugar. It comes in white, crystal, or syrup form and is one of the sugar alcohols that most resembles table sugar in taste and texture.

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

Nutritional Value of Maltitol

As a sugar alcohol, maltitol provides roughly 210 kcal of energy per 100 g (~2.1 kcal per gram), which is lower than table sugar. It contains no fat, and its sweetness is close to sugar.

How Should Maltitol Be Used?

Since excessive consumption of maltitol can cause gas, bloating, and a laxative effect in the intestines, moderate use is recommended; this is why the amount is limited in processed products.

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

How to Choose Maltitol

Good maltitol is a product in dry, clean, lump-free white crystal (or clear syrup) form; moist and clumped samples are not preferred.

• Crystals should be dry, white, and lump-free
• Syrup form should be clear
• Moisture and clumping are not desired

How to Store Maltitol

Maltitol is stored in a sealed jar in a dry place for a long time; a dry environment is important since moisture causes clumping. The syrup form is kept sealed in a cool place.

Using Maltitol in the Kitchen

Maltitol is used in amounts close to sugar for sweetening sugar-free chocolate, candy, biscuits, cake, and drinks; it holds up well in place of sugar thanks to the texture it provides. Being heat-stable, it is also used in cooking.

How Is Maltitol Used Instead of Sugar?

In most recipes it is used in a ratio close to (approximately one-to-one with) sugar; however, the amount is kept moderate considering that excess can have a laxative effect on the intestines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between maltitol and xylitol?

Both are sugar alcohols; maltitol's calorie count is close to xylitol's, and it more closely resembles sugar in texture. Excess of either can have a laxative effect on the intestines.

Does maltitol affect blood sugar?

It affects it less than sugar; however, compared to some other sugar alcohols it can raise blood sugar slightly more, so it should be used in moderation.

Does maltitol break down when cooked?

It is relatively heat-stable and can be used in cooking; since it behaves similarly to sugar, it gives good results in many recipes.