Is e966 vegan?

E966, or lactitol, is a sugar alcohol that is commonly used as a sugar substitute. It is a low-calorie sweetener that is considered safe for consumption by individuals with diabetes, as it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Lactitol is also known for its ability to function as a prebiotic, meaning that it helps to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Lactitol has a slightly sweet taste that is comparable to that of regular sugar, but with only about half the sweetness. Because of this, it is often used in combination with other sweeteners to create a more balanced flavor profile. It is commonly used in a variety of food products, including baked goods, confectionery, and dairy products. One of the benefits of using lactitol as a sweetener is that it has a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar, meaning that it does not cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a popular option for individuals who are looking to manage their blood sugar levels, or those who are trying to lose weight. In addition to its use as a sweetener, lactitol is also used as a bulking agent in many low-calorie and sugar-free food products. Because it is not absorbed by the body as easily as regular sugar, it can add the desired volume and texture to foods without contributing as much to the calorie count. Lactitol is generally considered safe for consumption, although some individuals may experience digestive side effects such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. It is important to consume lactitol in moderation to avoid these potential side effects. Overall, lactitol is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of food products. Its low-calorie and low-glycemic index properties make it a popular option for individuals who are looking to manage their blood sugar levels or reduce their calorie intake. Despite its potential side effects, lactitol is generally considered safe for consumption and is widely used in the food industry. Lactitol is a versatile ingredient that is particularly suited for applications in low-sugar and low-fat products, as well as gluten-free and low-carb formulations. It is often used in ice cream, chocolate, and baked goods to help retain moisture, prevent crystallization, and improve texture and shelf life. Due to its prebiotic properties, lactitol is also used as an ingredient in gut health supplements and functional foods. It has been shown to exhibit a range of beneficial health effects, including reducing the risk of colon cancer, improving mineral absorption, and enhancing immune function. In some cases, lactitol may be preferred over other sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol or xylitol, due to its milder flavor profile and reduced laxative effects. It is also less likely to cause tooth decay than regular sugar, making it a good option for oral care products such as gums and candies. Another advantage of lactitol is that it has a low impact on blood sugar levels, making it safe for individuals with diabetes to consume in moderation. This can be particularly important in products where taste and texture are important, such as baked goods or chocolate. In addition to its use in food and supplements, lactitol is also used in pharmaceuticals as an excipient, or inactive ingredient, in tablets and capsules. It can also be used as a humectant and moisturizer in personal care products such as lotions, creams, and cosmetics. While lactitol is generally considered safe for consumption, there are certain populations that may need to exercise caution. For example, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal conditions may experience digestive distress when consuming lactitol, due to its fermentation by gut bacteria. In addition, lactitol should be consumed in moderation, as too much can cause laxative effects and potentially lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Overall, lactitol is a versatile, low-calorie, and low-glycemic index sweetener that can benefit a wide range of applications. Whether you are looking to develop sugar-free baked goods, low-fat ice cream, or gut health supplements, lactitol can provide a range of functional and nutritional benefits. However, it is important to use lactitol in moderation and to be aware of its potential side effects if you are sensitive to sugar alcohols or have a gastrointestinal condition. Lactitol is a great option for anyone looking to reduce their sugar intake or manage their blood sugar levels without sacrificing taste and texture. Due to its prebiotic properties, it can also provide a range of health benefits such as improved gut health and immune function. It is important to note that lactitol is not a calorie-free sweetener, and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you are interested in incorporating lactitol into your products or recipes, it is important to work with a qualified food scientist or nutritionist to ensure that you are using the ingredient safely and effectively. By doing so, you can enjoy the many benefits of lactitol while creating high-quality, delicious products that meet the needs of your customers and consumers. As a sugar substitute, lactitol can be used as a functional ingredient in a variety of food and beverage products, including dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items. It is one of the top sugar alcohols that can be safely used in food products without causing health problems, and it is approved for use in over 30 countries worldwide. One of the main benefits of lactitol is its versatility – it can be used in a broad range of applications because it is resistant to heat and acid conditions and has a relatively low sweetness that blends well with other ingredients. It can be used to replace sugar on a 1:1 basis in most recipes, making it easy to use in existing formulations. Lactitol is also low in calories, with a caloric value of only 2 calories per gram compared to sugar at 4 calories per gram. This makes it an ideal ingredient for creating low-calorie food and beverage products that help consumers manage their weight. Additionally, lactitol has a lower glycemic index than sugar, which means it doesn't cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Lactitol has a mild sweetness that is similar to sugar, making it a popular choice for baked goods, chocolates, and dairy products. It provides a smooth, creamy texture to ice cream and acts as a humectant, which helps to retain moisture in foods. Lactitol also inhibits the growth of certain types of bacteria that cause tooth decay, making it a good choice for oral care products. Because lactitol is a sugar alcohol, consuming large amounts of it can cause side effects such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. However, the amount needed to produce those side effects is much higher than the amount typically used in food products. In general, it is safe to consume up to 30 grams of lactitol per day as part of a balanced diet. In addition to its use as a sweetener and bulking agent, lactitol has prebiotic properties that can help improve gut health. As a prebiotic, it stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, making it particularly beneficial for individuals with digestive issues. It also helps to improve mineral absorption in the body and enhance immune function. Lactitol is also used as an ingredient in pharmaceuticals, particularly in tablets and capsules. It can be used as an excipient, or inactive ingredient, to help bind the active ingredients together. Lactitol is also used in personal care products, such as lotions and creams, as a moisturizer that helps to prevent dry skin. Lactitol is safe for consumption by individuals with diabetes and it can be used in a variety of products to help manage blood sugar levels. Its low glycemic index makes it an ideal option for those seeking low-sugar products. It can also be used in gluten-free and low-carb formulations, as well as in products that require a long shelf life. One potential drawback of lactitol is its laxative effect when consumed in large quantities, which can cause gastric distress in some individuals. This is due to its poor absorption in the small intestine, which leads to fermentation by bacteria in the large intestine. However, most people can consume lactitol without experiencing any adverse effects, as long as it is consumed in moderation. Overall, lactitol is a versatile ingredient that provides a range of functional and nutritional benefits. It is safe for consumption and has a mild sweet taste that can be used in a variety of food and beverage applications. Lactitol is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes and those seeking low-sugar products. Its prebiotic properties make it a valuable ingredient for promoting gut health, and it can also be used in pharmaceuticals and personal care products. The potential side effects of lactitol are minimal, and most people can consume it safely in moderation.