# 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 its sweet taste and low glycemic index, maltitol crystalline has gained popularity in the food industry as a healthier alternative to traditional sugars.

## Physical and Chemical Properties

Maltitol crystalline appears as a white, odorless, crystalline powder with several distinctive properties:

– Sweetness: Approximately 75-90% as sweet as sucrose

– Solubility: Highly soluble in water (about 150 g/100 ml at 20°C)
– Melting point: 145-150°C
– Hygroscopicity: Less hygroscopic than sorbitol
– Caloric value: 2.1 kcal/g (compared to 4 kcal/g for sugar)
– Glycemic index: 35 (compared to 65 for sucrose)

## Production Process

The production of maltitol crystalline involves several key steps:

1. Extraction of starch from corn or wheat
2. Enzymatic hydrolysis of starch to produce maltose
3. Hydrogenation of maltose under high pressure and temperature
4. Purification and crystallization of maltitol
5. Drying and sieving to obtain the final crystalline product

## Applications in Food Industry

### Confectionery Products

Maltitol crystalline is widely used in sugar-free confectionery due to its excellent properties:

– Hard candies: Provides good stability and shelf life
– Chewing gum: Offers excellent texture and sweetness
– Chocolate: Maintains proper viscosity and mouthfeel

### Baked Goods

In baking applications, maltitol crystalline serves multiple purposes:

– Acts as a bulking agent in cookies and cakes
– Provides browning effect similar to sugar
– Helps retain moisture in baked products

### Dairy Products

The food industry utilizes maltitol crystalline in various dairy applications:

– Ice cream: Improves texture and reduces ice crystal formation
– Yogurts: Enhances sweetness without increasing calories
– Flavored milks: Provides clean sweet taste

## Health Benefits and Considerations

### Benefits

– Lower calorie content than sugar
– Reduced glycemic response
– Does not promote tooth decay
– Suitable for diabetics when consumed in moderation

### Considerations

– May cause digestive discomfort if consumed in excess
– Not completely calorie-free
– Still requires insulin response, though less than sugar

## Regulatory Status and Safety

Maltitol crystalline has been approved by various food safety authorities worldwide:

– FDA: Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)
– EFSA: Approved as food additive E965
– JECFA: Acceptable Daily Intake not specified (safe for consumption)

## Future Trends and Innovations

The market for maltitol crystalline continues to grow with several emerging trends:

– Increased demand for low-calorie sweeteners
– Development of new food applications
– Blends with other sweeteners for optimized taste profiles
– Expansion in pharmaceutical applications

As consumer awareness about health and wellness grows, maltitol crystalline is expected to play an increasingly important role in the food industry as a versatile sugar substitute.