Lactitol
Learn what Lactitol (E966) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Lactitol?
A food additive with functions as an anti-caking agent, binder, stabilizer, emulsifier, carrier for other additives, and sweetener. Lactitol is a polyol obtained from lactose, which is extracted from whey. It is 40% as sweet as sugar and contains 60% of its calories. Due to its solubility and stability at high temperatures, lactitol is successfully used in heat-treated products, especially baked goods.
Why is Lactitol added to food?
Lactitol (E966) is a anti-caking agent commonly found in: Canned fruit products, cocoa desserts.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit has been established.
Is Lactitol safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported when used in the quantities prescribed for food. Oral bacteria cannot break it down, so lactitol does not affect dental health.
Is Lactitol banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Lactitol okay for kids?
This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Lactitol
- Canned fruit products
- cocoa desserts
How to spot Lactitol on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E966
- Lactitol
Common misspellings to watch for:
- laetitol
- lactitol
- ldctitol
- lactltol
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of lactitol can cause laxative effects, such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. • People with lactose intolerance or other digestive issues should be cautious, as lactitol can cause bloating and abdominal discomfort. • It may interfere with diabetes treatments as it can influence blood glucose levels. • Prolonged use or excessive consumption may lead to electrolyte imbalances due to its laxative effect. • People with kidney conditions should avoid excessive consumption of lactitol, as it may affect kidney function in the long term.
Also known as
- laetitol
- lactitol
- ldctitol
- lactltol
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Lactitol? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E966 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Lactitol
- Is Lactitol safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported when used in the quantities prescribed for food. Oral bacteria cannot break it down, so lactitol does not affect dental health.
- Is Lactitol banned anywhere?
- Lactitol is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Lactitol safe for children?
- This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Lactitol on a food label?
- Look for E966, Lactitol in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: laetitol, lactitol, ldctitol.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.