What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol found in a variety of plants. While it is most commonly found in fruits and vegetables, xylitol can also be sourced from birch trees. It was first discovered by German chemistry professor Emil Fischer, when he and his assistant isolated this compound from beech chips, in the late 19th century.
Xylitol comes in the form of small white crystalline granules.
Xylitol in Dental Products
As a cariogenic material, it is found in a variety of dental products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, dental gel, and chewing gum. Xylitol is additionally used in other oral products like cough syrups, multivitamins, lozenges, and dissolving tablets.
Xylitol in Food & Beverages
Compared to sucrose, xylitol has fewer calories and carbohydrates and has a similar sweetness level to table sugar with a mild, menthol-like aftertaste. It is found in a variety of food and beverage items, primarily in sweet treats; namely chocolates, hard candies, gummies, and baked goods. Snacks formulated with xylitol are often sought by people who require or prefer low-sugar diets. In a further attempt to promote dental health, especially in children, some milk brands have begun using xylitol as a sweetener instead of regular table sugar.
Xylitol in Cosmetics
Food isn’t the only place you can find xylitol. Sugar alcohols are popular additions to cosmetics, particularly in the realm of skincare. Xylitol is a humectant, meaning it helps draw in water, making it an effective ingredient for hydrating products such as lotions, moisturizers, balms, and conditioners.
Xylitol in Textiles
Recently, xylitol has also entered the textile industry! Manufacturers have experimented with incorporating this ingredient into fabric that creates a cooling effect when it encounters moisture.
