Mannitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and a laxative. It occurs naturally in some foods and is also added to various products for its sweetening properties and as a low-calorie alternative to sugar. Here’s a comprehensive list of foods and products that contain mannitol.
Natural Sources
Fruits
- Apples: Contains small amounts of mannitol.
- Pears: Known for having a higher mannitol content compared to other fruits.
- Plums: Another fruit with moderate levels of mannitol.
- Dates: Contains mannitol, though typically in lower amounts.
Vegetables
- Mushrooms: Especially certain varieties like the common white mushroom.
- Seaweed: Certain types of seaweed are natural sources of mannitol.
Processed Foods
Sugar-Free Products
- Sugar-Free Gum: Often contains mannitol as a sweetener.
- Sugar-Free Candy: Many types use mannitol to replace sugar.
- Sugar-Free Chocolate: A popular choice for those avoiding sugar.
Baked Goods
- Sugar-Free Cookies: Mannitol is used in some recipes as a sugar substitute.
- Sugar-Free Cakes: Utilizes mannitol to achieve a sweet flavor without the sugar content.
Medical and Dietary Products
- Laxatives: Mannitol is commonly included in some over-the-counter laxative formulations.
- Dietary Supplements: Some supplements use mannitol as a filler or sweetener.
Pharmaceutical Products
- Oral Medications: Mannitol can be found in some tablets and capsules as a bulking agent.
- Intravenous Solutions: Used in hospitals as a diuretic and osmotic agent.
Specialty Items
- Low-Carb and Keto Foods: Products designed for low-carb or ketogenic diets often include mannitol as a low-calorie sweetener.
- Diabetic Foods: Many diabetic-friendly foods use mannitol to provide sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels significantly.
Others
- Cosmetics: Some skincare products contain mannitol for its moisturizing properties.
- Toothpaste: Mannitol is sometimes included in toothpaste for its sweetening effect.
This list encompasses a range of foods and products containing mannitol, highlighting its versatility in both natural sources and processed items.