sweetener INS 966

Lactitol E966

sugar alcohol — Primarily synthetic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

4-O-β-D-Galactopyranosyl-D-glucitol

CAS: 585-86-4

Data verified: 2026-04-04

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 Lactitol?

Lactitol is a sugar alcohol produced from lactose by hydrogenation, providing approximately 40% of sucrose's sweetness with about 2 kcal/g. Low glycemic impact makes it suitable for diabetic formulations. Used in sugar-free confectionery and as a bulk sweetener. Additionally, lactitol acts as a prebiotic dietary fiber, selectively stimulating beneficial gut bacteria. In medical applications, lactitol is used as an osmotic laxative for treating constipation. JECFA considers it acceptable with no ADI specified. EFSA confirmed safety. Approved in EU, USA, Canada, Japan, and Australia.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Lactitol is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Lactitol has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Warning required: excessive consumption may have laxative effects

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

GRAS for use in foods; also approved as OTC laxative

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Used in food and pharmaceutical applications

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

not specified (acceptable for use quantum satis)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: hydrogenation of lactose

Produced by catalytic hydrogenation of lactose, which is derived from whey (a byproduct of cheese production).

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Humectant in creams and lotions

Medical

Osmotic laxative (prescription and OTC); excipient in tablets

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lactitol (E966)?

Lactitol (E966) is a sweetener used in food products. It is sugar alcohol and synthetic. A sugar alcohol made from lactose (milk sugar). About 30-40% as sweet as sucrose. Has prebiotic properties and is used both as a sweetener and laxative.

What is the ADI for Lactitol?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Lactitol is not specified (acceptable for use quantum satis) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Lactitol?

Lactitol is used in various food categories including Sugar-free confectionery, Chewing gum. It is used as a sweetener in these products.

Is Lactitol the same as Lactitol monohydrate?

Yes, Lactitol is also known as Lactitol monohydrate, Lactit. These are different names for the same substance.