Characteristics and use of erythritol in the daily diet

Erythritol: characteristics

The sweetener called erythritol is naturally found in some foods. It can be found in seafood, pollen, certain types of fruit (e.g. pears or grapes), lichens and sea algae, among others. The erythritol found on the store shelves is the result of the process of synthesis from waste glycerine (which is one of the products of the process of production of ecological biofuels), which is done thanks to a special variety of the yeast called Yarrowia lipolytica Wratislavia.

he first thing that is noticeable is the appearance of erythritol - a product that is very much similar to the classic table sugar. However, its white colour and fine texture are the only similarities with sucrose. The level of sweetness in this product reaches a size comparable to approximately 65% of that of sucrose. What is more, the mentioned sweetener leaves a unique feeling of coolness in the mouth without a foreign aftertaste. Based on this characteristic, it can be quite easily stated that erythritol is a frequent addition or ingredient of sweetening mixtures which are a form of substitute for sugar.

Erythritol: application

It is easy to guess that the main use of erythritol is as a form of sweetener and substitute for the high-calorie table sugar. Unlike sucrose (and other sweeteners), the product is not metabolized in the body but simply excreted with urine. Therefore, there is no concern about its excessive accumulation in the body or the accumulation of products resulting from its metabolism.

There is no doubt that erythritol is a product that promotes slimming and weight control. There are 2 valuable pieces of evidence for this. Firstly, the glycemic index value of this sweetener is zero, which in no way causes changes in blood sugar and insulin levels. Secondly, it is low in calories - 1 g of erythritol provides about 10 times fewer calories than normal sugar.

What else is there to know about the sweetener called erythritol? Its use is exceptionally beneficial for the condition of the teeth. This is due to its properties, which are conducive to limiting the fermentation process of some of the sugars ingested in the oral cavity and reducing the risk of developing caries. Moreover, some experts attribute antioxidant properties to erythritol, which may prove to be helpful in the fight against free radicals.

Erythritol can be used as a sweetener for, among others:

• ice cream
• mustard
• chewing gum
• confectionery
• various sauces and dips
• dietary supplements and products for athletes
• processed fruit in the form of jam or marmalade