Learn Glossary natural sweetener

Xylitol(E967)

Level 2Generally safeIn Winter's Dictionary

Xylitol is a natural sweetener — Sugar alcohol sweetener as sweet as sucrose

What it does

Sugar alcohol sweetener as sweet as sucrose

Where you'll see it

chewing gum, mints, toffee

What the research says

FDA preliminary reports cited as possible cancer-causing; can cause stomach upsets in large amounts

Benefits

Sharply reduces cavities; useful for diabetics since metabolism does not require insulin

Regulatory status

  • US FDA: ASP
  • EU: approved
  • Notes: FDA preliminary reports as possible carcinogen disputed

Sources

  • A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives (Winter): FDA preliminary reports cited it as a possible cancer-causing additive