The Lab
Specimen No. 0211
CautionDerivedsweetenerfood additive

Maltitol

CAS 585-88-6 · E965 · maltitol syrup · hydrogenated maltose

A sugar alcohol used in sugar-free chocolate and candy. It has a lower blood-sugar impact than sugar, but is poorly absorbed, so it causes mild-to-moderate gas, bloating and looser stools at typical serving sizes.

medium confidence
Researched July 7, 2026

Concerns

  • In a randomized controlled trial, 35 g of maltitol produced significantly more flatulence, borborygmi, bloating and discomfort than a sugar (dextrose) control, along with more frequent and softer stools during the first 24 hours; the effects were mild and transient, and maltitol did lower the postprandial blood-glucose and insulin response (Respondek et al., Eur J Clin Nutr)
  • Maltitol is a poorly digested polyol; polyols that escape small-intestine absorption are fermented by colonic bacteria, producing gas and osmotic GI symptoms that scale with dose (general polyol-maldigestion mechanism reviewed in Fernandez-Banares, Nutrients 2022)

Regulatory flags

  • IARC Class: NL
  • EDC Status: None
  • Regulatory: US: GRAS; EU: authorized as E965
  • Evidence Grade: B

Commonly found in

Sugar-free chocolateSugar-free candyReduced-sugar baked goodsChewing gum

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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