Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a low-calorie sweetener in foods and oral-care products. It has a sweetness similar to sucrose but provides fewer calories and a lower glycemic impact. Xylitol is a five-carbon polyol that occurs naturally in small amounts in many fruits and vegetables and is produced industrially by hydrogenating xylose derived from the hemicellulose portions of plant matter.

In industry, xylitol is produced from plant-based xylan and is sold in crystalline, powder, or syrup forms. It is widely used in sugar-free chewing gum, candies, and toothpaste, and appears as an ingredient in some medicines and nutritional products. In the European Union it is listed as E967 and in the United States it is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a food additive.

Health and safety aspects in humans include its noncariogenic properties, meaning it does not contribute to tooth decay and may help reduce plaque formation and acid production by oral bacteria when used regularly. However, large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset, including bloating and osmotic diarrhea, particularly when introduced abruptly.

Toxicity in animals is a significant concern; xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release leading to hypoglycemia and, in some cases, liver failure. It is not considered safe for dogs and should be kept out of reach of pets. The effects in cats and other animals vary and are less well documented.

Overall, xylitol is a widely used sugar substitute with dental health benefits in humans but carries notable safety considerations for pets.