Is Xylitol Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Xylitol is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called birch sugar. (E967) CAS 87-99-0.
Other names: E967, birch sugar, wood sugar, INS 967
Is Xylitol banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Trident Sugar-Free Gum, Epic Dental Gum, Spry Gum, Zicam Nasal Spray, XyloBurst Mints |
| CAS number | 87-99-0 |
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a five-carbon sugar alcohol (pentitol) naturally found in birch wood, corn cobs, fruits, and vegetables. It has the same sweetness as sucrose but provides 40% fewer calories and does not raise blood glucose or insulin levels. Most commercial xylitol is produced from xylose derived from corn cob or hardwood hemicellulose hydrolysis.
Why is Xylitol used in food?
Used in sugar-free gum, dental care products, and diabetic confectionery for its sweetness without glycemic impact and its established dental health benefits.
Is Xylitol dangerous? Documented risks
Xylitol is safe for humans at normal consumption levels. Like other sugar alcohols, it can cause osmotic diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset at doses above 40–70 g/day. Critically, xylitol is highly toxic to dogs — even small amounts (0.1 g/kg body weight) can cause severe hypoglycemia and hepatic failure in canines, as documented in multiple veterinary case reports. The FDA and ASPCA have both issued warnings about xylitol pet toxicity. For humans, it is well-tolerated and has dental benefits.
Common US products containing Xylitol
- Ice breaker ice cubes peppermintIce Breakers
- Tom's of Maine Antiplaque & Whitening ToothpasteTom's of Maine
- Hello Naturally Whitening Fluoride ToothpasteHello
- Arm & Hammer Sensitive ToothpasteArm & Hammer
- Tom's of Maine Fluoride-Free Spearmint ToothpasteTom's of Maine
- Hello Kids Fluoride-Free Natural Bubblegum ToothpasteHello
How to avoid Xylitol: safer alternatives
Erythritol is a well-tolerated alternative with zero laxative threshold concern. Stevia provides sweetness with fewer digestive effects.
Frequently asked questions about Xylitol
Is xylitol toxic to dogs?
Yes — extremely toxic. Even small amounts cause dangerous hypoglycemia in dogs. Keep xylitol-containing products away from pets.
Does xylitol prevent cavities?
Yes. Xylitol is not fermented by oral bacteria to produce acid, and it inhibits Streptococcus mutans, the primary cavity-causing bacteria.
Is xylitol better than sugar?
It has a GI of 7 vs 65 for sucrose, making it far more suitable for blood sugar management.
Is xylitol derived from birch wood?
Traditionally from birch, but most commercial xylitol now comes from corn cob processing.
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Sources
- Xylitol toxicosis in dogs — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- EFSA re-evaluation of xylitol (E 967) as a food additive — EFSA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.