Maltitol

Sweetener

Maltitol at a glance

Category: Sweetener
Also called: Hydrogenated maltose
Commonly found in: Sugar-free candies, Sugar-free chocolates, Baked goods, Ice creams
Diets reviewed: 26 diets

What is Maltitol?

Maltitol is a sugar alcohol, also known as a polyol, commonly used as a low-calorie sweetener and thickener in the food industry. Chemically, it is a hydrogenated carbohydrate and provides approximately 75-90% of the sweetness of sucrose (table sugar) with fewer calories. Maltitol is often utilized in sugar-free candies, chocolates, baked goods, and ice creams due to its ability to mimic the sweetness and texture of sugar. It is derived from the hydrogenation of maltose, which can be sourced from corn or wheat, making it potentially unsuitable for those with corn allergies or sensitivities. As a sugar alcohol, maltitol is generally considered safe but can cause gastrointestinal disturbances like bloating and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.

Also known as:

Hydrogenated maltose

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeCaution

Maltitol is a carbohydrate-based additive often used as a thickener, filler, or sweetener in processed foods. This ingredient may include corn. Please contact the manufacturer for details.

Low FODMAPAvoid

Maltitol is a polyol, which makes it high FODMAP at a normal serving size.

Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Maltitol

People may avoid maltitol due to its potential corn origin, which can be problematic for individuals with corn allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, maltitol can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, particularly when consumed in large quantities. These side effects are due to its incomplete absorption in the gut, a common characteristic of sugar alcohols. Individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other digestive disorders may also choose to avoid maltitol to prevent exacerbating their symptoms.

Potential Reactions

Bloating
Gas
Diarrhea

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Maltitol

Sugar-free candies Sugar-free chocolates Baked goods Ice creams Chewing gum

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Related to Maltitol

Other ingredients people often check alongside Maltitol.

SorbitolUnknown XylitolUnknown ErythritolUnknown

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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