Origin
E 966 is obtained by catalytically hydrogenating milk sugar (Lactose). The end product has relatively little sweetness compared to sugar and is therefore usually used in combination with other sweeteners. An advantage of E 966 is that it hardly attacks the teeth and thus does not significantly contribute to caries.
Usage
No maximum quantity limit has been set for Lactitol. E 966 is primarily used in diabetic products. It can be found, for example, in sugar-free ice cream, chewing gum, sweets, cakes, cookies, and desserts. Additionally, it is used in regular products such as mustard, sauces, and dietary supplements.
Risks
The food additive E 966 is considered completely safe. Like all sugar substitutes, Lactitol has a laxative effect and can cause flatulence. Therefore, from a certain threshold, a warning notice regarding this must be printed on the packaging of food products. In Austria and Switzerland, for example, Lactitol is directly offered as a laxative in retail due to these properties.