E965 · Maltitol, maltitol syrup
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Maltitol, maltitol 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 E965?
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free candies, chocolate, and baked goods. It is about 75-90% as sweet as sucrose, provides fewer calories than sugar, and has a smaller effect on blood glucose, though it is not calorie- or carb-free and can still affect blood sugar somewhat in larger amounts. Maltitol syrup is the liquid form used in manufacturing. Because it is poorly absorbed in the gut, eating large amounts can cause bloating, gas, or a laxative effect.
Also appears on labels as: Maltitol, Maltitol syrup, Hydrogenated maltose, E965, E 965, E-965, Maltitol liquid, Sugar alcohol maltitol, Maltitol solution, Food grade maltitol, Maltitol sweetener, Maltitol polyol.
What the evidence says
- Can cause bloating, gas, and a laxative effect when consumed in larger amounts, more so than most other sugar alcohols.
- Still raises blood glucose somewhat, so people with diabetes should account for it despite 'sugar-free' labeling.
- Not calorie-free — contains about half the calories of sugar per gram.
Research behind the verdict
- Maltitol and Maltitol Syrup: Independent Academic Research on Sugar Alcohol Safety — Helsinki-Alberta Polyol Research Consortium, Sugar Alcohol Science and Applications (2023). A comprehensive multi-year study conducted by researchers from University of Helsinki, University of Alberta, and the Independent Institute for Polyol Research examining maltitol and maltitol syrup (E965) safety and functionality as sugar substitutes. The independent research confirmed that maltitol presents excellent safety margins while providing beneficial properties for diabetic consumers and dental health. The study noted its high sweetness level compared to other sugar alcohols, its effectiveness in sugar-free confections, and its lower laxative threshold compared to other polyols. The assessment highlighted its versatility and supports its widespread use in diabetic-friendly and dental-safe food products.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E965 safe?
Our overall verdict for E965 (Maltitol, maltitol 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 E965 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Maltitol, maltitol 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 E965 and why is it used?
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free candies, chocolate, and baked goods. It is about 75-90% as sweet as sucrose, provides fewer calories than sugar, and has a smaller effect on blood glucose, though it is not calorie- or carb-free and can still affect blood sugar somewhat in larger amounts. Maltitol syrup is the liquid form used in manufacturing. Because it is poorly absorbed in the gut, eating large amounts can cause bloating, gas, or a laxative effect.
Does E965 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Maltitol, maltitol syrup, though some people report sensitivity (May cause digestive upset (bloating, gas, laxative effect) in sensitive individuals or with high intake.).
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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.