# Maltitol Crystalline: Properties and Applications in Food Industry

## Introduction to Maltitol Crystalline

Maltitol crystalline is a sugar alcohol commonly used as a sugar substitute in various food products. It belongs to the polyol family and is derived from maltose through hydrogenation. With approximately 75-90% of the sweetness of sucrose, maltitol crystalline has become a popular choice for food manufacturers looking to reduce sugar content while maintaining taste and texture.

## Physical and Chemical Properties

Maltitol crystalline appears as white, odorless crystals with the following characteristics:

– Molecular formula: C12H24O11
– Molecular weight: 344.31 g/mol
– Melting point: 145-150°C
– Solubility: Highly soluble in water (approximately 175 g/100 mL at 20°C)
– Hygroscopicity: Lower than other polyols like sorbitol
– Sweetness: About 90% as sweet as sucrose

## Nutritional Profile

From a nutritional standpoint, maltitol crystalline offers several advantages:

– Caloric value: 2.1 kcal/g (compared to 4 kcal/g for sugar)
– Glycemic index: 35 (compared to 65 for sucrose)
– Non-cariogenic (does not promote tooth decay)
– Partially absorbed in the small intestine

## Applications in Food Industry

### 1. Confectionery Products

Maltitol crystalline is widely used in sugar-free candies, chocolates, and chewing gums due to its:

– Similar sweetness profile to sugar
– Excellent heat stability
– Ability to prevent crystallization
– Moisture-retaining properties

### 2. Baked Goods

In bakery applications, maltitol crystalline serves as:

– A bulk sweetener replacing sucrose
– A humectant to extend shelf life
– A texture modifier in cookies and cakes

### 3. Dairy Products

Food manufacturers incorporate maltitol crystalline into:

– Ice creams
– Yogurts
– Flavored milks

### 4. Pharmaceutical Applications

Beyond food, maltitol crystalline finds use in:

– Sugar-free syrups
– Chewable tablets
– Lozenges

## Advantages Over Other Sweeteners

Compared to other sugar substitutes, maltitol crystalline offers unique benefits:

– Clean sweet taste without aftertaste
– Excellent stability under processing conditions
– Good solubility and crystallization properties
– Lower laxative effect than some other polyols

## Regulatory Status and Safety

Maltitol crystalline is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and approved for use in many countries worldwide. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of “not specified” for maltitol, indicating its safety at levels required to achieve the desired effect.

## Conclusion

Maltitol crystalline serves as an excellent sugar alternative in various food applications, offering sweetness, functional properties, and health benefits. Its versatility makes it particularly valuable for developing reduced-sugar and sugar-free products that maintain quality and consumer acceptance. As the demand for healthier food options grows, maltitol crystalline will likely continue to play a significant role in food formulation strategies.