Is Sorbitol Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Sorbitol is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called glucitol. (E420) CAS 50-70-4.
Other names: E420, glucitol, D-sorbitol, INS 420
Is Sorbitol banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Orbit Gum, Werther's Sugar Free, Russell Stover Sugar Free, Dentyne Ice, Trident Gum |
| CAS number | 50-70-4 |
What is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) naturally found in some fruits, including apples, pears, and prunes. Commercially, it is produced by hydrogenation of glucose. It has approximately 60% of the sweetness of sucrose but provides fewer calories (2.6 kcal/g vs 4 kcal/g for sugar) and does not cause a significant immediate insulin response.
Why is Sorbitol used in food?
Used as a reduced-calorie sweetener in sugar-free gum, diabetic foods, and mints; also acts as a humectant to retain moisture in baked goods and confectionery.
Is Sorbitol dangerous? Documented risks
At doses above 20–50 g/day, sorbitol can cause osmotic diarrhea because it is incompletely absorbed in the small intestine and is fermented by colonic bacteria. EU regulations require products containing more than 10% added polyols to carry the label 'excessive consumption may produce laxative effects.' This is well-known and predictable. Sorbitol is not carcinogenic and does not raise blood glucose significantly, making it suitable for diabetics in controlled amounts.
Common US products containing Sorbitol
- Ice Breakers Cool MintHershey
- Ice breaker ice cubes peppermintIce Breakers
- Ice Breakers Wintergreen discIce Breakers
- Duo Fruit + Cool StrawberryIce Breakers
- High Protein Baked Bar Chocolate Peanut ButterRobert Irvine's Fit Crunch
- Skinless Beef FranksNathan's Famous
- Crest 3D White Whitening ToothpasteCrest
- Crest Pro-Health Advanced ToothpasteCrest
How to avoid Sorbitol: safer alternatives
Erythritol and xylitol are alternative sugar alcohols. Stevia and monk fruit provide non-caloric sweetening without the laxative threshold concern.
Frequently asked questions about Sorbitol
Does sorbitol cause diarrhea?
Yes, at doses above ~20–50 g/day it causes osmotic diarrhea. Normal amounts in gum or mints are well below this threshold.
Is sorbitol safe for diabetics?
It has a much lower glycemic impact than sugar, making it suitable for diabetics in moderation.
Is sorbitol banned in the EU?
No. Products containing significant amounts must carry a warning about laxative effects, but sorbitol itself is approved as E420.
Is sorbitol natural?
Naturally occurring in some fruits, but the food-grade version is synthetically produced by hydrogenation of glucose.
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Sources
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.