Xylitol: A Comprehensive Guide to a Multi Functional Natural Sweetener
Product Name: Xylitol
Molecular formula: C5H12O5
Molecular weight: 152.15
CAS number: 87-99-0
Purity: ≥ 99.0%
Melting point: 92-96 ° C
Solubility: Very soluble in water (about 640 g/L, 20 ° C)
Structural formula：
What is xylitol? Chemical and Physical Properties
Xylitol is a naturally occurring five carbon sugar alcohol with a molecular formula of C5H12O5 and a molecular weight of 152.15. Although it tastes as sweet as sucrose, it is chemically classified as an alcohol rather than a sugar.
Appearance: White crystalline powder
Sweetness: Equivalent to sucrose (about 1:1)
Calories: 2.4 kcal/g (40% lower than sucrose)
Source: Naturally present in various fruits and vegetables (such as plums, strawberries, cauliflower), and can also be extracted from corn cobs, sugarcane bagasse, or birch wood.
The core health benefits of xylitol
1. Excellent oral health guardians
This is the most famous efficacy of xylitol. Unlike regular sugar (fed with tooth decay bacteria), xylitol can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus mutans (the main bacteria causing tooth decay).
Mechanism: Bacteria are unable to ferment xylitol like they metabolize glucose, causing them to “starve” and reduce acid production.
Application: Chewing gum, toothpaste, and mouthwash containing xylitol can significantly reduce the risk of dental plaque and caries.
2. Low glycemic index (GI=7)
Xylitol is an ideal substitute for sucrose for patients with diabetes or those on low carbon diet.
Its metabolism is not dependent on insulin.
It is slowly absorbed by the human body and does not cause drastic fluctuations in blood sugar.
3. Weight management
Due to its 40% lower calorie content than sugar and satiety, using xylitol instead of daily sugar can help reduce total calorie intake and is a high-quality choice in weight loss diets.
Main purpose
1. Food and beverage industry
Xylitol is mainly used in this field as a substitute for sucrose, providing sweetness without raising blood sugar.
1) Sugar free candies and chewing gum;
2) Baked goods;
3) Beverages;
4) Dairy products
2. Oral care and personal care
Utilizing its antibacterial and moisturizing properties is a key ingredient in high-end care products.
1) Toothpaste and mouthwash;
2) Nasal sprays and nasal washes;
3) Lipstick and moisturizing cream
3. Pharmaceutical industry
As a medicinal excipient, utilize its non cariogenic and taste masking properties.
1) Oral liquid preparations
2) Chewing tablets and lozenges
3) Coating material
4. Cosmetics and Personal Care (Advanced Applications)
1) Anti aging essence
2) Hair gel and styling spray
5. Industrial and chemical raw materials
1) Synthesis of surfactants
2) Antifreeze and de icing agents
If you need to further understand Xylitol, you can contact the product manager at any time: ada@coreychem.com
