What is Sorbitol?

Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol with the chemical formula C6H14O6 that occurs naturally in fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, and plums. Due to its sweet taste and multifunctional properties, it is used as a sweetener, humectant, and texturizing agent in various industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Sorbitol is produced in the form of a white crystalline powder or a thick liquid solution and has a sweet taste that is about 60% as sweet as sugar. Because of its low calorie content, minimal effect on blood sugar, and moisturizing properties, it is highly popular in sugar-free, low-calorie, and medicinal products. Sorbitol is synthetically produced from glucose, which is typically derived from corn or wheat starch, and due to its non-toxicity and high safety, it is approved in global food and pharmaceutical standards such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). Thanks to its moisture-retention capabilities, it is widely used in products requiring long shelf life and a soft texture. Sorbitol is also used in some medicinal and food products to improve digestive health due to its mild laxative properties. These features make sorbitol a key raw material in many everyday products.

 

Physical and Chemical Properties of Sorbitol

 

Sorbitol is available as a white crystalline powder or a transparent, viscous liquid solution. It has a melting point between 94 and 96°C and demonstrates good stability at high temperatures, making it suitable for use in cooking or industrial production processes. Sorbitol has a density of about 1.49 g/cm³ and, due to its molecular structure containing six hydroxyl groups, possesses hygroscopic or moisture-absorbing properties. This allows sorbitol to act as a powerful humectant in food and cosmetic products, absorbing moisture from the environment and retaining it in the product. Sorbitol is highly soluble in water but has low solubility in non-polar solvents such as benzene or ether. Chemically, sorbitol is a polyol that is stable against oxidation and pH changes and does not decompose easily. It produces fewer calories than sugar (about 2.6 kcal per gram), making it ideal for low-calorie and sugar-free products. Sorbitol is non-toxic and, due to its high safety, is used in many edible and pharmaceutical products that come into contact with the human body. It is also heat-resistant and retains its quality in manufacturing processes that require high temperatures.

 

Sorbitol Production Method

 

Sorbitol is mainly produced through the catalytic hydrogenation of glucose. In this method, glucose—usually obtained from the hydrolysis of corn starch, wheat, or other starchy sources—is reacted with hydrogen in the presence of catalysts such as nickel, under high pressure and temperature. This reaction converts the aldehyde group of glucose into a hydroxyl group, producing sorbitol. The production process includes several stages, such as glucose purification, hydrogenation, filtration, and purification, to obtain a high-purity final product. Sorbitol is offered in two forms: powder and liquid (usually as a 70% aqueous solution). For food-grade sorbitol, more stringent purification steps are applied to ensure the product is free from harmful impurities and complies with strict food and pharmaceutical standards. Modern production methods use advanced technologies to increase yield and reduce costs. In some cases, sorbitol is extracted from natural sources such as fruits, but this method is less common due to high costs and low yield. Industrial production of sorbitol is widely carried out globally due to easy access to raw materials and high efficiency.

 

Applications of Sorbitol

 

Sorbitol has wide applications across various industries due to its multifunctional properties and is recognized as a key raw material in the production of diverse products.

 

Food Industry

 

In the food industry, sorbitol is used as a sweetener, humectant, and texturizing agent in products such as sugar-free gum, candy, chocolate, cakes, cookies, ice cream, and dairy products. Due to its mild sweetness and low calorie content, it is highly popular in low-calorie and sugar-free products designed for diabetics or specific diets. Sorbitol helps retain moisture in food products and prevents them from drying out or crystallizing. It is used in ice cream and desserts to create a soft and uniform texture and acts as a stabilizer in beverages. Sorbitol is also used in the production of gum and candy to create a soft and chewy texture. Due to its high safety and approval by global food standards, sorbitol is used as a safe additive in many food products and helps improve their quality and shelf life.

 

Blood Sugar

 

Due to its minimal effect on blood sugar, sorbitol is a suitable option for people with diabetes. Unlike sugar, which causes a rapid increase in blood sugar, sorbitol is metabolized slowly in the body and has a lower glycemic index. This feature has made sorbitol a common ingredient in sugar-free products like gum, candy, chocolate, and diabetic desserts. It allows diabetic patients to enjoy sweet tastes without significantly affecting their blood sugar levels. Sorbitol also produces fewer calories compared to sugar and is therefore used in weight-loss diets. It is used as a sugar substitute in many food products designed for individuals with special dietary needs.

 

Laxative

 

Due to its mild laxative property, sorbitol is used in some pharmaceutical and food products as a laxative agent. By drawing water into the intestines, it facilitates bowel movements and helps treat constipation. Sorbitol is used in medicinal syrups, dried plums, and some food products designed to improve digestive health. This laxative property is particularly beneficial in products made for individuals with digestive issues. Due to its high safety, sorbitol acts as a natural and non-stimulant laxative at appropriate doses and, compared to some chemical laxatives, has fewer side effects.

 

Oral and Dental Health

 

Sorbitol is used in oral hygiene products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and sugar-free gum as a sweetener and humectant. Unlike sugar, which causes tooth decay, sorbitol is non-sugar and is not fermented by oral bacteria, thus it does not harm dental health. It helps improve the taste and texture of toothpaste and mouthwash and creates a pleasant sensation in the mouth. Sorbitol is also used in sugar-free gum to provide a sweet and long-lasting flavor and helps maintain oral and dental health.

 

Cosmetic and Personal Care Uses

 

In the cosmetics and personal care industry, sorbitol is used due to its moisturizing and softening properties in the production of moisturizing creams, lotions, shampoos, liquid soaps, and skin and hair care products. It helps retain moisture in the skin and hair and prevents them from drying out. Sorbitol is also used in the formulation of hygiene gels and personal care products to create a soft and uniform texture. Due to its high safety and compatibility with the skin, sorbitol is used in many cosmetic products that come into contact with sensitive skin. It also acts as a stabilizing agent in cosmetic emulsions and helps maintain product stability against changes in temperature and humidity.

 

Persia Kamandar Paytakht Company – Sorbitol Importer

 

Persia Kamandar Paytakht Company is one of the reputable importers of sorbitol in Iran, offering this substance in high quality and in both food-grade and pharmaceutical-grade forms. By sourcing sorbitol from reliable global manufacturers, the company provides products that meet international standards such as USP and food-grade regulations. Persia Kamandar Paytakht supports its customers with expert consulting and professional services to help them select the right product for their specific needs. The company’s guaranteed quality, competitive pricing, and customer-focused service make it a reliable choice for purchasing sorbitol. For acquiring high-purity sorbitol for food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic applications, you can contact the company's sales team and benefit from their professional services.