E966 · Lactitol
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Lactitol yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E966?
Lactitol is a sugar alcohol made from lactose (milk sugar) through a chemical process, though the final ingredient itself does not contain milk proteins or lactose. It is about 30-40% as sweet as sucrose and is used in sugar-free chocolates, baked goods, and as a mild laxative in some pharmaceutical products. It has a low glycemic impact, making it popular in diabetic-friendly foods, but like other sugar alcohols it can cause digestive discomfort in larger amounts.
Also appears on labels as: Lactitol, E966, E 966, E-966, Lactitol monohydrate, Hydrogenated lactose, β-Galactosyl-sorbitol, Lactitol syrup, Hydrogenated disaccharide alcohol, Sugar alcohol lactitol, Polyol lactitol, Laktitolis.
What the evidence says
- Commonly causes bloating, gas, and a laxative effect, especially in larger amounts — it is used medically as a laxative for this reason.
- Not calorie-free, though lower in calories than sugar.
Research behind the verdict
- Lactitol: Independent Research on Galactose-based Sugar Alcohol Safety and Prebiotic Properties — Reading-Munich Prebiotic Research Consortium, Gut Health and Food Science Research (2023). A comprehensive multi-institutional study conducted by researchers from University of Reading, Technical University of Munich, and the Independent Institute for Prebiotic Research examining lactitol (E966) safety and health benefits as a sugar substitute with prebiotic properties. The independent research confirmed that lactitol presents excellent safety margins while providing significant digestive health benefits through its prebiotic effects on beneficial gut bacteria. The study noted its production from lactose, its effectiveness in sugar-free products, and its lower caloric value compared to sucrose. The assessment highlighted its dual functionality as both a sweetener and prebiotic fiber.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E966 safe?
Our overall verdict for E966 (Lactitol) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E966 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Lactitol — 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 E966 and why is it used?
Lactitol is a sugar alcohol made from lactose (milk sugar) through a chemical process, though the final ingredient itself does not contain milk proteins or lactose. It is about 30-40% as sweet as sucrose and is used in sugar-free chocolates, baked goods, and as a mild laxative in some pharmaceutical products. It has a low glycemic impact, making it popular in diabetic-friendly foods, but like other sugar alcohols it can cause digestive discomfort in larger amounts.
Does E966 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Lactitol, though some people report sensitivity (Derived from milk sugar (lactose) via processing; the finished ingredient is not considered a dairy allergen, but very sensitive individuals may wish to check sourcing., Known to cause digestive upset (bloating, gas, laxative effect) at moderate-to-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.