Lycasin

Lycasin is a hydrogenated glucose syrup that is commonly used as a sugar substitute in various food products. It is known for its sweet taste and is often used in sugar-free and low-calorie products. Lycasin is composed primarily of maltitol, a type of sugar alcohol that provides sweetness without the same caloric content as sucrose.

Composition and Properties

Lycasin is primarily made up of maltitol, which is a disaccharide consisting of glucose and sorbitol. It also contains small amounts of other polyols such as sorbitol, maltotriitol, and hydrogenated oligosaccharides. The syrup is produced through the hydrogenation of corn syrup.

Sweetness and Caloric Content

Lycasin has approximately 75-90% of the sweetness of sucrose but with fewer calories. It is often used in confectionery, baked goods, and dairy products to provide sweetness without significantly increasing the caloric content.

Uses

Lycasin is widely used in the production of sugar-free and low-calorie foods. It is particularly popular in chewing gum, candy, and chocolate products. Due to its non-cariogenic properties, it does not contribute to dental caries, making it a preferred sweetener in oral care products.

Health Considerations

While Lycasin is generally considered safe for consumption, excessive intake can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This is due to the body's limited ability to fully digest sugar alcohols.

Related Pages

• Sugar substitute
• Maltitol
• Polyol
• Hydrogenated glucose syrup
• Non-cariogenic