Xylitol

PROPERTIES

Pure xylitol is a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar. It absorbs moisture or water from the air and is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Xylitol is easily soluble in cold water, soluble in methanol and stable in storage. It does not caramelize at elevated temperatures. It is roughly as sweet as sucrose with only two-thirds the food energy.

APPLICATIONS

PHARMA/MEDICINE

Xylitol is widely approved for use in pharmaceuticals (syrups and chewable tablets). The pharmaceutical industry uses xylitol as a sweetener in its products.

Thanks to the abillity to inhibit bacterial growth it has proven to be a safe and effective alternative to antibiotics for ear infections.

Xylitol is widely recognized as a cavity fighter. It helps to reduce plaque formation.

It has been shown to provide nasal relief.

Xylitol has been found to inhibit the growth of Pneumococci.

Studies have concluded that xylitol is effective in preventing acute otitis media (AOM) when given in a syrup or chewing gum.

Xylitol consumption produces an increase in calcium absorption and bone strength.

This chemical appears to have potential as a treatment for osteoporosis.

A recent report suggests that consumption of xylitol may help control oral infections of Candida yeast.

Researchers in Japan evaluated the actions of farnesol and xylitol against Streptococcus aureus for the purpose of limiting infections that colonize atopic dermatitis skin lesions.

Studies in rats have shown that dietary xylitol enhances collagen synthesis.

FOOD

Current xylitol products include chewing gum and other confectionery and dietetic and diabetic foods where is used mainly as a sweetener. It can be found in Total Parenteral Nutrition (intravenous nutrition), as well.

COSMETICS

In topical cosmetic and toiletry applications, xylitol is used primarily for its humectant and emollient properties. Other applications include oral hygiene products like toothpaste, fluoride tablets and mouthwashes.

PRODUCTION OF RARE SUGARS

Xylitol serves as an inexpensive starting material for other rare sugar production, such as L-lyxose, L-xylose or L-arabinose.

Notes:

The World Health Organization has given xylitol its safest rating for food additives.