Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
Food additive E420(i) is the crystalline form of sorbitol, a six-carbon sugar alcohol obtained by hydrogenating glucose.
It is a white, odorless powder with a slightly sweet taste. The substance has moderate sweetness (approximately 60% that of sucrose) and good thermal stability.
Additive E420i is one of the two forms of E420. The second form — E420(ii) — is sorbitol syrup, a water-based solution of sorbitol.
Crystalline sorbitol contains minimal water, which makes E420i convenient for precise dosing and stable during storage. It is widely used in the production of chewing gum, hard candies, tablets, and other products where a solid form and exact dry matter content are important. Unlike sorbitol syrup, crystalline sorbitol is less hygroscopic and is therefore used in products where excess moisture must be avoided.
E420i serves as a sweetener, humectant, texturizer, and stabilizer. It also provides a mild cooling sensation upon dissolution, making it a popular ingredient in mint-flavored products.
For more detailed information on sorbitol’s properties, effects on the body, and legal status, see the article on E420.