About
Sorbitol syrup (E420ii) is an aqueous solution of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol naturally occurring in fruits and produced commercially by hydrogenation of glucose. It is used in food as a sweetener, humectant, and bulking agent, particularly in sugar-free confectionery, baked goods, and diabetic-friendly products.
Safety summary
JECFA has assigned sorbitol syrup an ADI of 'not specified,' reflecting negligible toxicological concern at typical food use levels. Intakes above approximately 50 g/day can cause osmotic laxative effects and gastrointestinal discomfort in most adults. EFSA is currently re-evaluating the safety of sorbitol (E420) as part of its ongoing polyols re-evaluation programme; the EU already restricts its use in beverages because young consumers may more easily exceed the laxative threshold.
Regulatory landscape
| Jurisdiction | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| FSANZ (Food Standards Australia New Zealand) (Australia) | Approved | Sorbitol syrup (INS 420(ii)) is permitted as a food additive under the FSANZ Food Standards Code; ADI 'not specified' per JECFA adopted.source |
| EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) (European Union) | Approved | Approved under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives (Annex II). Use in beverages is not permitted because young consumers could exceed the laxative threshold. EFSA re-evaluation of polyols including E420(ii) is ongoing; a call for genotoxicity data (in vitro micronucleus test) was launched and closed in 2023.source |
| FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) (India) | Approved | Sorbitol and sorbitol syrup (INS 420) are permitted food additives under FSSAI Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations; specific permitted categories and use levels apply.source |
| FSA / COT (United Kingdom) | Approved | E420(ii) remains on the UK approved additives list post-Brexit, retained from EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 via the UK Food Additives, Flavourings, Enzymes and Extraction Solvents Regulations 2013.source |
Who should approach with care
Research citations
- 1WHO. GSFA Online Food Additive Details for Sorbitol Syrup (INS 420(ii)). fao.org
- 2other. Codex Alimentarius – Comment Compilation: Sorbitol Syrup in Beverages (CX-711-52). fao.org
- 3FDA. Aspartame and Other Sweeteners in Food – Sugar Alcohols (Sorbitol). fda.gov
- 4EFSA. State of Play: Lessons Learnt from Re-evaluation of Sweeteners, 2024. efsa.europa.eu
- 5EFSA. Call for data on genotoxicity data on sorbitol (E 420 i) – EFSA, 2023. efsa.europa.eu
