E420 · Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E420?
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a lower-calorie sweetener and moisture-retaining ingredient (humectant) in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and some cosmetics. It is about 50-60% as sweet as table sugar and has a smaller effect on blood sugar, which is why it's often used in products marketed to people managing diabetes. Eating more than about 10-20 grams at once can cause bloating, gas, or a laxative effect in many people, and products containing more than 10% sorbitol must carry a laxative-effect warning in the EU.
Also appears on labels as: Sorbitol, Sorbitol syrup, D-sorbitol, E420, E 420, E-420, Sorbitol liquid, Sorbitol solution, Food grade sorbitol, Sugar alcohol sorbitol, Sorbitol sweetener, Sorbitol polyol.
What the evidence says
- Can cause bloating, gas, and a laxative effect, especially in single servings above roughly 10-20 g; EU-labeled foods above 10% sorbitol must warn of this.
- People with hereditary fructose intolerance should avoid sorbitol, as the body can convert it to fructose.
Frequently asked questions
Is E420 safe?
Our overall verdict for E420 (Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E420 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E420 and why is it used?
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol used as a lower-calorie sweetener and moisture-retaining ingredient (humectant) in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, and some cosmetics. It is about 50-60% as sweet as table sugar and has a smaller effect on blood sugar, which is why it's often used in products marketed to people managing diabetes. Eating more than about 10-20 grams at once can cause bloating, gas, or a laxative effect in many people, and products containing more than 10% sorbitol must carry a laxative-effect warning in the EU.
Does E420 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sorbitol, sorbitol syrup.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.