Maltitol is a widely used sugar alcohol that belongs to the functional sweetener category. It is typically produced by the hydrogenation of maltose, which is derived from starch sources such as corn, wheat or rice.

It has a clean, sweet taste very close to that of sucrose, with about 90% of the sweetness of regular sugar. One of its key advantages is its low caloric value, making it a popular sugar substitute in low-calorie and reduced-sugar food formulations.

Maltitol has a low glycemic index, meaning it causes only a gradual and moderate rise in blood glucose levels. This characteristic makes it suitable for consumption by individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.

It also exhibits excellent moisture-retaining properties. In the food industry, this feature is leveraged to keep baked goods, confectionery and dairy products moist and fresh for a longer period, preventing them from drying out quickly.