Sorbitol

Product name:Sorbitol

IUPAC name: (2R,3R,4R,5S)-hexane-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexol

Other names:D-glucitol

CAS:50-70-4

Characteristics and Application:
Sorbitol, also known as glucitol, is a sugar alcohol that the body metabolises slowly. It is obtained by reduction of glucose changing the aldehyde group to an additional hydroxyl group.
Sorbitol is often used in modern cosmetics as a humectant and thickener. Sorbitol is often used in mouthwash and toothpaste, as it is said that when mixed with other certain ingredients it can help fight plaque. Some transparent gels can only be made with sorbitol as it has a refractive index sufficiently high for transparent formulations. Sorbitol is used as a cryoprotectant additive (mixed with sucrose and sodium polyphosphates) in the manufacture of surimi, a highly refined fish paste most commonly produced from Alaska (or walleye) pollock (Theragra chalcogramma). It is also used as a humectant in some cigarettes.

Uses:Sorbitol is used in low calorie candies, and in many foods as both a sweetener and as a humectant (moisture retaining ingredient).Sorbitol is used as an emollient (skin softener) in soaps.