Apimar Foods (EN) › Sweeteners & fibres › Sorbitol
Sorbitol (E420) is a polyol made by hydrogenating glucose. We supply it in two forms: as sorbitol syrup with around 70% dry matter, and as crystalline sorbitol powder. In recipes it is rarely used mainly for sweetness – its real job is holding moisture. It binds water so well that fillings do not dry out, marzipan does not harden and chewing gum stays pliable. Apimar Foods supplies sorbitol to food manufacturers across Europe.
Technical data
| Parameter | Value |
| E number | E420 |
| Source | glucose from starch |
| Sweetness vs sucrose | approx. 0.5–0.6 |
| Energy value | 2.4 kcal/g (EU value for polyols) |
| Forms | syrup (typically approx. 70% dry matter) and crystalline powder |
| Hygroscopicity | very high – the main technological function |
| Cooling effect | noticeable |
| Digestive tolerance | the lowest among common polyols |
| Dental | non-cariogenic |
Sorbitol syrup or sorbitol powder
The same substance in two forms. The choice is not about price but about whether water is a problem or a tool in your process.
| Criterion | Sorbitol syrup | Sorbitol powder |
| Form | viscous, colourless liquid, approx. 70% dry matter | white crystalline powder |
| When to choose | fillings, creams, glazes, syrups – no dissolving needed | dry mixes, chewing gum, low-moisture products, small precise doses |
| Adds water to the recipe | yes – about 30% of the mass is water | no |
| Dosing | convenient for large batches, can be pumped | convenient for small additions and precise weighing |
| Watch out for | may crystallise in the container at low temperature | absorbs moisture from the air in dry mixes |
In practice, confectionery and filling producers use the syrup, while chewing gum and tablet producers use the powder.
Applications
- Fillings and creams – keep them soft through shelf life
- Marzipan and confectionery masses
- Chewing gum
- Sugar-free confectionery
- Bakery products – moisture retention
- Surimi and some meat products – cryoprotection
Technical notes
Think of it as a humectant, not a sweetener. At about half the sweetness of sugar, sorbitol is used for water binding and texture; sweetness, if needed, is added separately.
It has the lowest digestive tolerance of the common polyols, so high dosages require the mandatory laxative-effect statement on the label.
It lowers water activity, which also helps microbiological stability.
Labelling and EU regulations
In the list of ingredients it is declared as „sweetener (sorbitol)” or „sweetener (E420)”. Where it is used only as a humectant, it may be declared with that function in some food categories – check this for your specific category.
Where polyols exceed 10% of the finished product, the label must state „excessive consumption may produce laxative effects” (Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011).
Sorbitol is an authorised food additive in the EU under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008.
Supply and documentation
- Samples for recipe trials before the first order
- Specification, certificate of analysis (CoA) for each batch, allergen and GMO statements
- Safety data sheet where applicable
- From single pallets to full truckloads – quantities, packaging and delivery terms (Incoterms) are confirmed in each quotation
- Deliveries to customers in Poland and across Europe
Request a quote or a sample. Tell us the ingredient, the estimated volume and your application – we reply with a proposal, specification and price within one business day. Send an inquiry →
Frequently asked questions
Syrup or powder – which is cheaper?
Compare on dry matter, not per kilo. The syrup is about 30% water, so price per kilo of sorbitol is what matters.
Why does my filling dry out?
Often the humectant level is too low for the shelf life. Sorbitol is the classic solution; we can suggest a starting dosage.
Does sorbitol syrup crystallise?
It can at low storage temperatures. Store it above the temperature given in the specification.
Is sorbitol suitable for sugar-free products?
Yes, it is a common bulk sweetener in sugar-free confectionery, subject to the laxative-effect statement above 10%.
Related ingredients
- All sweeteners – other polyols and high-intensity sweeteners
- Stevia – to restore sweetness without calories
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