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SweetenerINS 965
E965
Maltitol
What you need to know
Maltitol is a sugar alcohol that tastes very close to sugar, used in sugar-free confectionery and gum.
It is tooth-friendly and lower in calories than sugar.
Large servings can cause bloating and a laxative effect — the familiar warning on sugar-free lolly bags.
Where it stands, by region
The same additive can be approved in one country and banned in another. This is the divergence that matters most.
| 🇦🇺AU / NZ | Approved Permitted (FSANZ Food Standards Code). |
| 🇪🇺EU | Approved Permitted (EFSA). |
| 🇺🇸US | Approved Permitted (FDA). |
| 🇨🇦CA | Approved Permitted (Health Canada). |
Health evidence
How settled the science is for each area — not how dangerous. “Unknown” means not enough good studies yet.
Hyperactivity & behaviour
Unknown
Allergy & intolerance
Unknown
Gut microbiome
Laxative effect in excess
Suspected
Metabolic effects
Unknown
Carcinogenicity
Unknown
Cardiovascular
Unknown
A disaccharide polyol made from maltose. JECFA ADI 'not specified'. Mandatory laxative-effect labelling.
Synthesis: Synthetic (sugar-derived)ADI Not specified (acceptable)