sweetener INS 967

Xylitol E967

sugar alcohol β€” Primarily natural/synthetic.

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EU: Approved
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA: Approved
πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Japan: Approved
πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί AU/NZ: Approved
πŸ‡¨πŸ‡¦ Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Xylitol

CAS: 87-99-0

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Xylitol occurs naturally in birch bark and strawberries. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Xylitol is derived from plant materials β€” its origin is more natural than its E-number might suggest.

Beyond food, Xylitol is also used in medicine, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Warning required: excessive consumption may have laxative effects

Official EFSA Link
πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

GRAS for use as sweetener, also approved for dental health claims

πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: ζ—’ε­˜ζ·»εŠ η‰©

Very popular in Japanese dental gum products

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified (acceptable for use quantum satis)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

A sugar alcohol as sweet as sucrose with 40% fewer calories. Famous for preventing tooth decay and inhibiting bacterial growth in the mouth. Has a cooling sensation when dissolved.

birch barkstrawberriesraspberriesplumscorn cobs

Manufacturing

Method: hydrogenation of xylose

Commercially produced by hydrogenation of xylose derived from birch bark or corn cobs. The process involves acid hydrolysis of hemicellulose followed by catalytic hydrogenation.

Applications Beyond Food

Medical

Used in nasal sprays, oral rinses, and ear infection prevention

Household

Dental care products, sugar-free toothpaste

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Xylitol (E967)?
Xylitol (E967) is a sweetener used in food products. It is sugar alcohol and natural/synthetic. A sugar alcohol as sweet as sucrose with 40% fewer calories. Famous for preventing tooth decay and inhibiting bacterial growth in the mouth. Has a cooling sensation when dissolved.
Where is Xylitol found naturally?
Xylitol is naturally found in birch bark, strawberries, raspberries, plums, corn cobs. A sugar alcohol as sweet as sucrose with 40% fewer calories. Famous for preventing tooth decay and inhibiting bacterial growth in the mouth. Has a cooling sensation when dissolved.
What is the ADI for Xylitol?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Xylitol is not specified (acceptable for use quantum satis) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Xylitol?
Xylitol is used in various food categories including Chewing gum, Sugar-free confectionery. It is used as a sweetener in these products.
Is Xylitol the same as Birch sugar?
Yes, Xylitol is also known as Birch sugar, Wood sugar. These are different names for the same substance.