Sorbitol
Learn what Sorbitol (E420) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Sorbitol?
Food additive used as a low-calorie sweetener, stabilizer, humectant, emulsifying salt (chelating agent), volume agent, and thickener. It is naturally present in fruits but is industrially derived from glucose. It appears as E 420(i) – Sorbitol or E 420(ii) – Sorbitol syrup. It is also used as a carrier substance for other food additives. Sorbitol is used in the quantities specified in recipes for low-calorie confectionery and bakery products, cereal-based desserts, fruits, vegetables, fats, eggs, cocoa, milk, sauces, mustard, chewing gum, etc.
Why is Sorbitol added to food?
Sorbitol (E420) is a sweetener commonly found in: Low-calorie confectionery products, cereals, sauces, mustard.
Permitted quantity: No maximum allowable dose has been established.
Is Sorbitol safe?
Low concern
No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
Is Sorbitol banned anywhere?
⚠ Restricted in some countries (not banned in the EU)
Is Sorbitol okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sorbitol
- Low-calorie confectionery products
- cereals
- sauces
- mustard
How to spot Sorbitol on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E420
- Sorbitol
Common misspellings to watch for:
- $orbitol
- sorbltol
- sorbitol
Better alternatives
• May cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and diarrhea, especially at high doses. • Excessive use may lead to laxative effects. • People with sorbitol intolerance or fructose malabsorption syndrome should avoid consumption.
Also known as
- $orbitol
- sorbltol
- sorbitol
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sorbitol? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E420 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sorbitol
- Is Sorbitol safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported at the quantities incorporated into foods.
- Is Sorbitol banned anywhere?
- Sorbitol is not banned in the EU but is restricted in some countries.
- Is Sorbitol safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sorbitol on a food label?
- Look for E420, Sorbitol in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: $orbitol, sorbltol, sorbitol.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.