Malitol
Malitol is a new type of functional sweetener, which has attracted extensive attention due to its low calorie, non carious, indigestible, calcium absorption and other physiological characteristics Malitol, also known as hydrogenated maltose, chemical name is 4-O- α- D-glucosyl-D-glucitol, the molecular formula is C12H24O11, and the relative molecular weight is 344.31. Malitol is a white crystalline powder or colorless and transparent neutral viscous liquid, which is easily soluble in water and insoluble in methanol and ethanol. The hygroscopicity is very strong, and maltitol syrup is generally commercialized.
performance
The sweetness of maltitol is 85%~95% of sucrose. It has the characteristics of heat resistance, acid resistance, moisture retention and non fermentation. It is not digested and absorbed in the body. Its calorific value is only 5% of sucrose. It does not increase blood sugar and cholesterol. It is an ideal sweetener for therapeutic food. For children's food. It can prevent dental caries.
Food Applications
(1) Application in functional food
Maltol is hardly decomposed in the body, so it can be used as food raw material for diabetics and obese patients.
(2) It is used in the production of candy and chocolate. Because of its good flavor and taste, good moisture retention and non crystallinity, maltitol can be used to produce various candies, including foamed cotton candy, hard candy, transparent soft candy, etc
(3) Application in fruit juice drinks
Malitol has a certain viscosity and is difficult to ferment. Therefore, when manufacturing suspended juice drinks or lactic acid drinks, adding maltitol instead of a part of granulated sugar can make the drinks taste full and smooth.
(4) Application in frozen food
The use of maltitol in ice cream can make the product fine, thick, sweet and delicious, and extend the shelf life.
As a food additive, maltitol is allowed to be used in cold drinks, cakes, fruit juice, biscuits, bread, pickles and candies. The dosage can be determined according to production needs.