Sorbitol

Sorbitol is sold in liquid and crystalline forms. It is metabolized more slowly than glucose or fructose, so it can be used by diabetics, since it does not increase blood glucose levels when consumed. Sorbitol also contains fewer calories than table sugar (sucrose), and it is used in many diet foods as a bulk sweetener. In the food industry it is mainly used in fruit preserves, cake mixes, ice cream, cookies, chocolates, pastries, and sugar-free candy and gum. Its main nonfood applications are in toothpaste, mouthwash, cosmetics, and laxatives.