The characteristics of sorbitol as food addictive

　　Sorbitol, which is widely distributed in pears, peaches and apples with an content of 1% to 2%, can be prepared by reduction of glucose. Although it is comparable to glucose on its sweetness, it has a stronger sweet flavor. It can be slowly absorbed and utilized by the body, and in this process blood glucose level does not increase. It is also a good moisturizer and surfactant.
　　It is one of the first sugar alcohols in Japan that were allowed to be used as food additive to improve the moisture of foods or as a thickening agent. It can be used as a sweetener, as is commonly used in the manufacture of sugar-free chewing gum. It is also used as a moisturizer, excipient for cosmetics and toothpaste, and as a substitute of glycerin.