What Is Erythritol Made From?

1. Natural Sources and Production Methods of Erythritol

 

Natural Occurrence in Foods

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) that occurs naturally in trace amounts in certain fruits and fermented foods. For example:

  • Fruits: Pears, grapes, and watermelon.

  • Fermented Foods: Cheese, soy sauce, and wine.

While erythritol exists in nature, the quantities are minimal. Commercial production is necessary to meet global demand for its use as a sweetener.

 

Industrial Production Process

Most erythritol today is produced through a fermentation process. Key steps include:

  1. Raw Materials: Glucose derived from corn or wheat starch is the primary feedstock.

  2. Fermentation: The glucose is fermented using yeast or fungi (e.g., Moniliella pollinis). These microorganisms metabolize glucose and produce erythritol as a byproduct.

  3. Purification: The fermented mixture is filtered, crystallized, and dried to create a powdered form.

This method is similar to how yogurt or beer is produced, aligning erythritol with "naturally derived" sweeteners.

 

Is Erythritol Vegan and Non-GMO?

  • Vegan: Yes, as no animal products are involved.

  • Non-GMO: Most brands use non-GMO corn, but consumers should check labels for certification.

 

2. Health Benefits and Potential Risks of Erythritol

 

Why Erythritol Is a Popular Sugar Alternative?

  • Zero Calories: Unlike sugar, erythritol provides 0.24 calories per gram (vs. 4 calories per gram for sugar).

  • Low Glycemic Impact: It does not spike blood sugar or insulin levels, making it diabetic-friendly.

  • Dental Health: Erythritol inhibits oral bacteria growth, reducing cavity risk (supported by the Journal of Dentistry).

  • Digestive Tolerance: Compared to other sugar alcohols (e.g., xylitol), erythritol causes fewer gastrointestinal issues since 90% is absorbed in the bloodstream and excreted via urine.

Controversies and Safety Concerns

Despite its benefits, erythritol has faced scrutiny:

  • 2023 Study Linking Erythritol to Cardiovascular Risk: A Nature Medicine study found a correlation between high erythritol levels and increased clotting risk. Critics argue the study used doses far exceeding typical intake.

  • FDA Status: Classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe), but long-term effects require further research.

  • Laxative Effects: Overconsumption (>50g/day) may cause bloating or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.

 

3. Erythritol vs. Other Sweeteners: A Comparative Analysis

 

Erythritol vs. Stevia

  • Source: Erythritol is fermented; stevia is extracted from plant leaves.

  • Aftertaste: Stevia often has a bitter aftertaste, while erythritol mimics sugar’s flavor.

  • Caloric Content: Both are near-zero calorie.

Erythritol vs. Xylitol

  • Dental Benefits: Both reduce cavities, but xylitol is more effective.

  • Toxicity: Xylitol is toxic to dogs; erythritol is safer for pets.

  • Calories: Xylitol has 2.4 calories per gram.

Erythritol vs. Artificial Sweeteners (Aspartame, Sucralose)

  • Natural Origin: Erythritol is perceived as more "natural" than lab-made aspartame.

  • Heat Stability: Erythritol retains structure when baked, unlike aspartame.

 

4.Uses of erythritol

 

  1. Food additives

Erythritol, as a low-calorie, high-sweetness natural sweetener, is widely used in the food industry. It can be used to make a variety of foods such as candies, biscuits, ice cream, chewing gum, mouth fresheners, beverages, etc. to improve the taste and sweetness of food while reducing calorie intake. Since erythritol is digested, absorbed and metabolized slowly in the human body, it will not cause a significant increase in blood sugar and insulin, so it is also suitable for diabetics and weight controllers.

 

  1. Pharmaceutical sweeteners

Erythritol can also be used as a sweetener for medicines to meet the needs of specific patient groups. For example, for patients who need to control blood sugar or calories, erythritol can be used as an ideal sweetness substitute.

 

  1. Other uses

In addition to the food and pharmaceutical fields, erythritol may also have other potential uses. For example, due to its antioxidant, detumescent, and blood circulation effects, erythritol may also have certain application prospects in the fields of health products or cosmetics. However, the specific applications and effects in these fields still need further research and verification.

 

  1. Precautions

Although erythritol has many excellent properties, the following points should be noted during use:

Eat in moderation: Long-term and large-scale intake of erythritol may cause digestive discomfort symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, and indigestion. Therefore, it is recommended to consume erythritol in moderation according to your physical condition and doctor's advice.

Individual differences: Some people may have different tolerance to erythritol, so you should pay attention to observe your personal physical reaction during use. If you feel uncomfortable, you should adjust the dosage or stop using it in time.

 

5.Where can I buy Erythritol powder?

 

For more information about Erythritol powder and to explore our full range of mushroom-based products, don’t hesitate to contact us at Sost Biotech.

 

References

  1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). GRAS Notice for Erythritol.

  2. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Erythritol: An Interpretive Summary of Clinical Studies.

  3. Journal of Dentistry. Impact of Erythritol on Oral Bacteria.

  4. Nature Medicine. Erythritol and Cardiovascular Risk: A 2023 Cohort Study.

  5. Healthline. Erythritol vs. Stevia: Which Is Better?