Maltitol
Learn what Maltitol (E965) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Maltitol?
A food additive with functions as an anti-caking agent, binder, stabilizer, emulsifier, carrier for other additives, and sweetener. Maltitol is a polyol obtained by hydrogenating maltose from starch. It has 90% of the sweetness of sugar but only half of its calories. Maltitol is metabolized very slowly, which leads to it being mostly excreted unchanged.
Why is Maltitol added to food?
Maltitol (E965) is a stabilizer commonly found in: Confectionery products, pastries, and dietetic foods.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit has been established.
Is Maltitol safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported when used in the quantities prescribed for food. Oral bacteria cannot break it down, so maltitol does not affect dental health.
Is Maltitol banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Maltitol okay for kids?
This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and children under 4 years old.
Common foods that contain Maltitol
- Confectionery products
- pastries
- and dietetic foods
How to spot Maltitol on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E965
- Maltitol
Common misspellings to watch for:
- maltitol
- mdltitol
- maltltol
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption of maltitol can cause laxative effects, including diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloating. • People with sensitivity to sugar alcohols should avoid maltitol, as it can cause significant gastrointestinal discomfort. • It may interfere with glycemic metabolism, although it has a lower impact on blood sugar levels compared to sugar, it should still be monitored by people with diabetes. • Prolonged use can affect gut flora, causing bacterial imbalances in the digestive tract. • People with kidney or liver conditions should consult a doctor before consuming large amounts of maltitol.
Also known as
- maltitol
- mdltitol
- maltltol
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Maltitol? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E965 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Maltitol
- Is Maltitol safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported when used in the quantities prescribed for food. Oral bacteria cannot break it down, so maltitol does not affect dental health.
- Is Maltitol banned anywhere?
- Maltitol is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Maltitol safe for children?
- This additive is not permitted in foods intended for infants and children under 4 years old.
- How do I spot Maltitol on a food label?
- Look for E965, Maltitol in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: maltitol, mdltitol, maltltol.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.