Lactitol
Also known as: E966, Lactit, Lactositol
Lactitol is a polyol (sugar alcohol) authorized as a food additive in the EU and as GRAS for specific uses in the US. Like other polyols, it can cause gastrointestinal effects (laxative, gas, bloating) when consumed in large quantities.
What it is
Lactitol (E966), a sugar alcohol (polyol) made by reducing lactose, used as a low-calorie sweetener and bulking agent.
Sweetener, bulking agent and texturizer in sugar-free and reduced-calorie foods.
Why it's flagged
- Laxative effect at high intakes
- GI discomfort (gas, bloating)
What regulators actually say
"Foods containing more than 10% added polyols must bear the warning 'excessive consumption may produce laxative effects'"
"EFSA panel concluded re-evaluation of polyols including lactitol with no safety concerns at reported uses"
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS for specific uses (GRN 75); approved as drug for chronic idiopathic constipation
European Union — EFSA
Authorized food additive E966 under EU 1333/2008
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app