D-lactitol

D-lactitol (CAS 585-86-4) is a sugar alcohol derived from lactose, commercially known under names including Lactit, Lactnol, Lactite, and Miruhen. It carries no assigned E-number in the EU but is recognised as a polyol sweetener with approximately 40% of the sweetness of sucrose and a low glycaemic response.

In food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, lactitol functions as a bulk sweetener and humectant in sugar-free confectionery, where it retains moisture and provides mouthfeel without promoting tooth decay. In laxative formulations, it acts as an osmotic agent, drawing water into the colon to support bowel regularity at controlled dosages.

D-lactitol is available in solid form to food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade specifications, with compliance assessed against FCC and Ph.Eur. monographs where applicable. Suppliers operating within the EU supply chain are subject to REACH registration requirements. Packaging formats vary by supplier and order volume.