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Sorbitol(E420)

Level 2 — Generally safeIn Winter's Dictionary

Sorbitol is a natural sweetener — Sugar alcohol thickener, sequestrant, sweetener, humectant

Also: D-Sorbitol

What it does

Sugar alcohol thickener, sequestrant, sweetener, humectant

Where you'll see it

candy, frozen desserts, shredded coconut, dietetic fruits, soft drinks

What the research says

Excess can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal disturbances; alters absorption of other drugs

Benefits

Sugar substitute for diabetics

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: GRAS
  • EU: approved
  • Notes: ASP

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): if ingested in excess, it can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal disturbances