Crystalline Maltitol: Properties and Applications

# Crystalline Maltitol: Properties and Applications

## Introduction to Crystalline Maltitol

Crystalline maltitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sugar substitute in various food and pharmaceutical products. It is derived from maltose through a hydrogenation process, resulting in a sweetener that closely resembles sugar in taste and texture while offering several functional benefits.

## Physical and Chemical Properties

Maltitol crystallizes in a white, odorless, and hygroscopic powder form. Its key properties include:

– Sweetness: Approximately 90% as sweet as sucrose
– Solubility: Highly soluble in water
– Melting point: Between 145-150°C
– Caloric value: 2.1 calories per gram (compared to 4 calories per gram for sugar)
– Glycemic index: 35 (significantly lower than sugar’s 65)

## Manufacturing Process

The production of crystalline maltitol involves several steps:

1. Extraction of maltose from starch sources like corn or wheat
2. Hydrogenation of maltose under high pressure and temperature
3. Purification and crystallization
4. Drying and sieving to obtain the final product

## Food Industry Applications

Crystalline maltitol finds extensive use in sugar-free and reduced-calorie products:

### Confectionery Products

– Sugar-free chocolates
– Hard candies
– Chewing gums
– Toffees and caramels

### Baked Goods

– Low-calorie cookies
– Diabetic-friendly cakes
– Sugar-reduced pastries

### Other Applications

– Ice creams and dairy desserts
– Fruit preparations
– Cereal bars

## Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Uses

Beyond food applications, crystalline maltitol serves important functions in:

– Sugar-free syrups and chewable tablets
– Toothpaste formulations
– Mouthwash products
– Cosmetic creams and lotions

## Health Benefits and Considerations

While maltitol offers several advantages, consumers should be aware of both benefits and potential drawbacks:

### Benefits

– Lower glycemic impact than sugar
– Non-cariogenic (doesn’t promote tooth decay)
– Suitable for diabetics when consumed in moderation
– Good digestive tolerance compared to other polyols

### Considerations

– May cause gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in excess
– Not completely calorie-free
– Still requires insulin response, though less than sugar

## Storage and Handling

Proper storage conditions for crystalline maltitol include:

– Keep in a cool, dry place
– Maintain relative humidity below 65%
– Store in airtight containers
– Avoid exposure to strong odors

## Regulatory Status

Crystalline maltitol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and approved for use in many countries worldwide. It carries the E-number E965 in Europe and is classified as a nutritive sweetener.

## Future Trends

The market for crystalline maltitol continues to grow due to:

– Increasing demand for sugar-reduced products
– Rising health consciousness among consumers
– Expansion of diabetic-friendly food options
– Technological advancements in production methods

As food manufacturers seek better sugar alternatives, crystalline maltitol remains a popular choice for its balanced combination of sweetness, functionality, and health benefits.