Mannitol E421
polyol — Primarily natural/synthetic.
D-Mannitol
CAS: 69-65-8
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.
What Is Mannitol?
Mannitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) that occurs naturally in many plants including mushrooms, celery, and certain seaweeds. As a food additive (E421), it functions as a bulking agent, humectant, and sweetener in sugar-free confectionery, chewing gum, and pharmaceuticals. It provides approximately 60% of the sweetness of sucrose with lower caloric value (approximately 1.6 kcal/g). Excess consumption (>20 g/day) can cause osmotic laxative effects. JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety in 2008. Mannitol is also used as an osmotic diuretic in medical applications.
? Did You Know?
Mannitol occurs naturally in mushrooms and seaweed. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Mannitol is derived from seaweed, a practice that originated centuries ago in East Asian cooking traditions.
Beyond food, Mannitol is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Permitted in most food categories
United States (FDA)
Regulated as a direct food additive under FDA CFR titles.
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
A sugar alcohol found naturally in many plants and fungi, especially abundant in mushrooms and brown seaweed. Historically extracted from the manna ash tree, which secretes sweet sap called 'manna'.
Manufacturing
Commercially produced by catalytic hydrogenation of fructose or mannose. Can also be extracted from seaweed, but synthetic production from fructose is more common and economical.
Applications Beyond Food
Used in skincare products as a humectant and texture enhancer.
Widely used as an osmotic diuretic drug for reducing brain swelling and intracranial pressure. Also used in kidney function tests and as a coating for tablets.