Is Allulose Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Allulose is restricted in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called D-psicose. CAS 551-68-8.
Other names: D-allulose, D-psicose, rare sugar
Is Allulose banned in the EU?
| EU status | Restricted |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Atkins products, Quest Low Carb, Enlightened Ice Cream, Catalina Crunch Cereal, Jordan's Skinny Syrups |
| CAS number | 551-68-8 |
What is Allulose?
Allulose (D-psicose) is a rare sugar monosaccharide naturally present in trace amounts in wheat, figs, raisins, and jackfruit. It has about 70% of sucrose's sweetness but provides only 0.4 kcal/g (about 10% of sucrose's calories) because it is absorbed but not metabolized. The FDA exempted allulose from the 'total sugars' declaration in 2019.
Why is Allulose used in food?
Used as a low-calorie, low-glycemic sweetener in keto-friendly foods, confectionery, and beverages; it also participates in Maillard browning like regular sugar.
Is Allulose dangerous? Documented risks
Generally considered safe with a favorable glycemic profile. Human studies show that allulose does not raise blood glucose or insulin. GI effects (bloating, abdominal cramping, diarrhea) have been reported in dose-response studies above 0.4 g/kg body weight; a 2016 study in the journal Food & Chemical Toxicology established a no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) in humans. Compared to erythritol, no cardiovascular concerns have been raised in the literature.
Common US products containing Allulose
How to avoid Allulose: safer alternatives
Monk fruit extract, stevia, or erythritol for zero/low-calorie sweetening.
Frequently asked questions about Allulose
Is allulose approved in the EU?
Allulose has limited novel food approval in the EU and is not as freely permitted as in the US.
Does allulose count as sugar?
The FDA exempted it from the total sugar declaration since it is metabolically inactive; it still appears in total carbohydrates.
Is allulose keto-friendly?
Yes. It has a glycemic index near 0 and does not count toward net carbs.
Can allulose cause stomach issues?
At doses above ~35 g per serving, allulose can cause bloating and diarrhea. Normal use amounts are typically below this threshold.
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Sources
- FDA Response to Citizen Petition — Allulose Labeling — FDA
- Tolerance and safety of D-allulose in humans — Food & Chemical Toxicology / PubMed
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.