Xylitol is a natural compound that has gained recognition as a popular sugar substitute across various industries. Its ability to offer sweetness with fewer calories has made it a common ingredient in many products consumers encounter daily. Understanding what xylitol is and its different names can provide insight into its widespread use and properties.
Xylitol’s Identity
Xylitol is chemically classified as a sugar alcohol, also known as a polyol. This means it combines characteristics of both sugar molecules and alcohol molecules, enabling it to activate the sweet taste receptors on the tongue. It has a molecular formula of C5H12O5 and appears as a white, crystalline powder. Xylitol occurs naturally in small quantities within many fruits, vegetables, and even in the human body through normal metabolism.
Despite its name, xylitol does not contain ethanol, the alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. It provides a sweetness level comparable to table sugar (sucrose) but contains approximately 40% fewer calories, offering about 2.4 calories per gram compared to sugar’s 4 calories per gram. Xylitol also has a low glycemic index, meaning it causes minimal impact on blood sugar levels, which makes it suitable for individuals managing their blood glucose. A notable characteristic of xylitol is the cooling sensation it produces in the mouth when consumed, a property that influences its application in certain products.
Its Many Monikers
Xylitol is known by several other names, often reflecting its origins or chemical composition. One common alternative is “birch sugar,” stemming from its historical and commercial extraction from birch trees, particularly Finnish birch.
Another widely used term is “wood sugar,” which relates to its production from wood sources. The name “xylitol” itself derives from the Ancient Greek “xylon” (wood) and the “-itol” suffix for sugar alcohol. While “sugar alcohol” or “polyol” are its chemical classifications, these are typically scientific terms. Some manufacturers may also refer to it simply as “Xylit.”
Sources and Applications
Xylitol is naturally present in various plant materials, including fibrous fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and plums, as well as vegetables such as mushrooms, cauliflower, and pumpkin. For large-scale commercial production, xylitol is commonly extracted from materials rich in xylan, a hemicellulose, found in birch wood, corn cobs, and other agricultural waste.
Its properties make it a versatile ingredient used across numerous industries.
- As a sugar substitute in sugar-free chewing gums, candies, mints, and other confectionery products, due to its comparable sweetness and dental benefits.
- In oral care products like toothpaste and mouthwash, as it does not promote tooth decay and inhibits certain oral bacteria.
- In pharmaceuticals such as cough syrups, chewable vitamins, and nasal sprays.
- In some cosmetic formulations, due to its humectant properties.