Food-grade sorbitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol, produced by hydrogenation of glucose. It is commonly found in fruits such as apples and pears. As a white crystalline powder or granule, it is soluble in water and has a mild sweetness, with a sweetness level approximately 60% of that of sucrose. It has a relatively low calorie content (2.6 kcal/g).
【CAS】50-70-4 Molecular formula:C6H14O6 Relative molecular mass:182.1718
Structural formula:
一．Product Property
Chemically stable, it is not easily oxidized by air. It is not susceptible to fermentation by various microorganisms and has good heat resistance. It does not decompose even at high temperatures (200℃).
二．Quality Index:
| Parameter | Sorbitol Liquid | Sorbitol Powder |
| Appearance | Colorless, clear viscous liquid | White crystalline powder |
| Sorbitol content (dry basis) | ≥69.0% (Liquid), ≥91.0% (Powder) | ≥91.0% |
| Moisture content | ≤31.0% | ≤1.5% |
| Reducing sugars (as glucose) | ≤0.5% | ≤0.5% |
| Total sugar (as glucose) | ≤8.0% | ≤1.0% |
| Residue on ignition | ≤0.1% | ≤0.1% |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤1 mg/kg | ≤1 mg/kg |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤1 mg/kg | ≤1 mg/kg |
| Nickel (Ni) | ≤2 mg/kg | ≤2 mg/kg |
| Heavy metals (as Pb) | ≤5 mg/kg | ≤5 mg/kg |
| pH (10% solution) | 5.0-7.5 | 5.0-7.5 |
| Conductivity (10% solution) | ≤10 μS/cm | ≤10 μS/cm |
三．Application scope and Usage
Food-grade sorbitol, as a multifunctional food additive, is widely used in various fields such as food, medicine, and cosmetics. In the food industry, it is mainly used as a low-calorie sweetener in products like sugar-free candies, chewing gum, and chocolate, with a sweetness level approximately 60% of that of sucrose, making it particularly suitable for people with diabetes. Additionally, due to its strong hygroscopicity, sorbitol can effectively retain the moisture of baked goods (such as cakes and cookies) and jams, extending the shelf life and improving the texture. In beverages and dairy products (such as ice cream and yogurt), it can provide sweetness while also preventing crystallization and stabilizing the taste. In the pharmaceutical field, sorbitol is commonly used in syrups, chewable tablets, and toothpaste, serving as a sweetening base and a humectant. In the cosmetics industry, its moisturizing properties are utilized, and it is added to products such as lotions and lipsticks.
四．Package and Storage
The packaging is done using plastic barrels or bags. The specifications are 270kg per barrel and 25kg per bag.
Sorbitol should be stored in a dry and cool place with a temperature range of 15-25℃. The relative humidity should be controlled below 50%. Avoid direct sunlight. Use double-layer moisture-proof packaging (inner polyethylene bag + outer moisture-proof paper barrel), do not stack more than 5 layers, and keep at least 30cm away from the ground. Unopened for 24 months, after opening, it is recommended to use within 6 months. During transportation, it needs to be protected against moisture and shock, and must not be stored together with toxic or harmful substances. Regularly check the packaging. If there is slight lumps, they can be crushed for use; if it is severe, it should be scrapped. Strictly follow the first-in-first-out principle.
五．Safety Protection:
During operation, a dust mask (N95 grade) should be worn and the operation should be carried out in a well-ventilated area. Skin contact may cause mild irritation. It is recommended to wear protective gloves and goggles during the operation. In case of accidental ingestion of a large dose, it may cause diarrhea. Immediate medical attention should be sought.
