In brief: Erythritol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) used as sweetener E968.
Current assessment
| Point | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Energy | Very low |
| Blood glucose | Little direct effect |
| ADI | 0.5 g/kg body weight/day |
| Main side effect | Diarrhoea at high intake |
EFSA set an ADI of 0.5 g/kg body weight in 2023. It found no proven causal link between dietary erythritol and cardiovascular risk, while recommending further research.[1]
FAQ
Is erythritol calorie-free?
Almost, but not literally zero.
Can it cause diarrhoea?
Yes.
Is erythritol automatically dangerous for the heart?
A causal link from food intake is not established.
Is unlimited intake sensible?
No.
Conclusion
Erythritol can reduce sugar intake but is not a licence for unlimited consumption.
