Sorbitol, also known as E420, is an organic chemical compound belonging to the group of sugar alcohols (polyols). It is a widely distributed substance in nature – naturally occurring in many fruits such as apples, pears, plums and cherries. However, for industrial purposes, sorbitol is produced synthetically by hydrogenating glucose, allowing it to be obtained on a large scale and in a pure form.
Characteristics and properties of sorbitol
Chemically, sorbitol is a six-carbon sugar alcohol with the formula C6H14O6. Its characteristic feature is its sweet taste, although slightly less intense than that of traditional sugar – it reaches about 50-60% of the sweetness of sucrose. Importantly, its calorific value is 2.6 kcal/g, lower than that of regular sugar (4 kcal/g), making it a popular substitute in diet products.
One of the most important properties of sorbitol is its low glycaemic index (GI 9), which means that it does not cause sudden spikes in blood glucose levels. This characteristic makesit safe for people with diabetes. In addition, sorbitol has a hygroscopic effect – it has the ability to bind and retain water, which is particularly appreciated in many industrial applications.
Applications in the food industry
In the food industry, sorbitol, designated E420, is used in a very wide range of applications. Above all, it is used as a sugar substitute in products for diabetics and in calorie-reduced foods. It can be found in chewing gum, sugar-free candies, energy bars and other sweets.
Another important function of sorbitol in the food industry is its action as a humectant. It prevents confectionery products from drying out, prolonging their freshness. It is therefore used in cakes, cookies, confectionery breads and other products where it is important to maintain adequate moisture.
Use in the cosmetics industry
In cosmetics, sorbitol is valued above all for its moisturising properties. As an ingredient in many skin care preparations, such as creams, lotions and shower gels, it helps to maintain an adequate level of moisture in the skin. It acts as a so-called humectant – a substance that binds water molecules and prevents water loss through the epidermis.
In toothpastes, sorbitol has a dual function – on the one hand, it gives them a pleasant, sweet taste (which is particularly important in toothpastes for children), and on the other hand, it prevents the product from drying out in the tube. It has a similar function in mouthwashes, where it also improves the consistency of the product.
It is worth noting that sorbitol in cosmetics is a very mild substance, safe even for sensitive skin prone to irritation. It does not cause allergic reactions and works well with other ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
Pharmaceutical applications
In the pharmaceutical industry, sorbitol is used primarily as an auxiliary substance in the production of medicines. It is used as a carrier of active substances in tablets and capsules, as well as an ingredient in syrups, where it acts as a sweetener and improves the taste of the preparations.
In higher doses, sorbitol has a mild laxative effect and is therefore sometimes used in bowel preparations. Its mechanism of action is to increase the volume of faecal masses and stimulate intestinal peristalsis, which facilitates defecation.
Availability and commercial forms
Sorbitol is widely available on the market in various forms. For industrial purposes, it is mainly offered in crystalline (powder) form and as syrup in various concentrations. The crystalline form is particularly popular in the food industry, while liquid forms are more commonly used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Many companies offer the possibility of purchasing sorbitol in large quantities (e.g. sales on FDCM), which is particularly beneficial for large production facilities. For smaller companies or craftspeople, sorbitol can be purchased in smaller packages from specialised food or cosmetics shops.
Online trading platforms such as the FDCM (Food Derivatives Chemical Market) are becoming increasingly popular, where a variety of speciality sugars, including sorbitol, can be found, often at attractive prices and in different forms tailored to the needs of a particular industry.
Summary
Sorbitol is an extremely versatile substance that has found applications in many industries. Its unique properties – moderate sweetness, low calorific value, moisturising and stabilising action – make it an indispensable ingredient in the production of food, cosmetics and medicines.
For entrepreneurs looking for high-quality sorbitol, a variety of purchasing options are available – from buying sorbitol in bulk on platforms such as FDCM, to smaller packs in specialised food commodity shops. The safety of its use and wide application possibilities mean that sorbitol will remain an important ingredient in many products for years to come.
In an era of increasing nutritional awareness and health consciousness, the role of sorbitol as a healthier alternative to traditional sugar will certainly continue to grow, opening up new opportunities for producers and consumers.
