Lactitol

Lactitol (CAS 585-86-4), also known commercially as Importal and classified as E966, is a sugar alcohol derived from lactose used primarily as a reduced-calorie bulk sweetener.

Where is Lactitol used?

• Food manufacturing: replaces sucrose in sugar-free confectionery, baked goods and chocolate
• Pharmaceuticals: excipient in tablet manufacturing and active osmotic laxative ingredient
• Personal care: humectant in skincare and oral care formulations
• It also functions as a prebiotic in functional food and dietary supplement products targeting gut health.

Good to know: Its low glycemic response and prebiotic activity make it a functional ingredient beyond simple sweetening applications. It delivers comparable bulk and texture at roughly half the caloric value of traditional sugar.

Commercial specifications

• Monohydrate is the most commercially prevalent version
• Food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade material compliant with Ph. Eur. and USP monographs
• Bulk supply in multi-kilogram bags through to pallet quantities