C4H10O4

Overview of the chemical compound C4H10O4

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (or polyol) used as a food additive and sugar substitute. It is naturally occurring and is made from glucose by fermentation with yeast.

Chemical Properties

Erythritol is a tetrahydric alcohol with the chemical formula C4H10O4. It is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. The compound is non-hygroscopic, meaning it does not absorb moisture from the air, which makes it useful in various food processing applications.

Uses

Erythritol is commonly used as a low-calorie sweetener in sugar-free and reduced-calorie foods and beverages. It provides about 60-70% of the sweetness of sucrose (table sugar) but with almost no calories. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners such as stevia or aspartame to enhance sweetness.

Health Effects

Erythritol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is approved for use in many countries. It is absorbed in the small intestine and excreted unchanged in the urine, which minimizes its impact on blood sugar levels and insulin response. Unlike other sugar alcohols, erythritol is less likely to cause digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea.

Production

Erythritol is produced by the fermentation of glucose using yeast or other microorganisms. The process involves the conversion of glucose to erythritol through a series of enzymatic reactions. The resulting erythritol is then purified and crystallized for use in food products.

See Also

• Sugar alcohol
• Sugar substitute
• Low-calorie sweetener

External Links

• Erythritol on WikiMD