Sorbitol – Premium Food-Grade Sweetener and Humectant

Description

Discover the versatility of Sorbitol, a high-purity sweetener and humectant designed for food, cosmetics, and industrial applications. With its excellent moisture retention and stability, Sorbitol enhances the texture and quality of a wide range of products, from baked goods to skincare formulations.

Applications of Sorbitol

Food and Beverage Industry

• Sweetener: Used as a low-calorie alternative to sugar in sugar-free and reduced-calorie foods like candies, gums, and baked goods.
• Humectant: Retains moisture in products like cakes, cookies, and pastries to enhance texture and shelf life.
• Stabilizer and Thickener: Improves consistency in syrups, jams, jellies, and frozen desserts.
• Beverages: Adds sweetness and smooth texture to sugar-free and low-calorie drinks.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

• Moisturizer: Acts as a humectant in lotions, creams, and moisturizers to hydrate and soften the skin.
• Hair Care: Retains moisture and improves texture in shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
• Toothpaste and Mouthwash: Provides a smooth texture and a slightly sweet taste while maintaining moisture.

Pharmaceuticals

• Base for Syrups: Used as a carrier and sweetener in medicinal syrups and elixirs.
• Chewable Tablets and Lozenges: Adds sweetness and enhances mouthfeel in over-the-counter and prescription products.
• Laxatives: Acts as an osmotic agent in over-the-counter laxative solutions.

Industrial Applications

• Plasticizer: Improves flexibility and durability in materials like plastics and resins.
• Stabilizer: Used in the production of certain industrial chemicals to enhance stability and performance.

Agriculture

• Plant Care: Used in some formulations for plant nutrition and moisture retention.

Medical Applications

• Ophthalmic Solutions: Included in artificial tears and eye drops to maintain moisture.
• Diabetic Foods: Suitable for inclusion in diabetic-friendly products due to its low glycemic index.

DIY and Home Use

• Skincare Formulations: Commonly used in homemade lotions, creams, and soaps for its moisturizing properties.
• Sugar-Free Baking: A popular ingredient for home bakers creating diabetic- or keto-friendly recipes.

Storage:

• Temperature:
  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
  • Maintain storage temperatures between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F) to prevent degradation or microbial growth in liquid solutions.
• Containers:
  • Use airtight, moisture-proof containers for crystalline sorbitol to prevent clumping due to its hygroscopic nature.
  • Store liquid sorbitol in food-grade, corrosion-resistant containers, such as stainless steel or HDPE plastic, to prevent contamination.
• Environmental Conditions:
  • Protect from direct sunlight, heat, and sources of ignition.
  • Avoid exposure to moisture for solid sorbitol to maintain product integrity.
• Segregation:
  • Keep away from strong oxidizing agents, acids, and reactive chemicals.
• Labeling and Signage:
  • Clearly label storage containers with the product name, grade, and safety information.

Handling:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Eye Protection: Wear safety goggles to prevent accidental splashes of liquid sorbitol.
  • Skin Protection: Use gloves when handling sorbitol, especially in large quantities.
  • Respiratory Protection: Not typically required, but use a dust mask if handling powdered sorbitol in bulk.
• Ventilation:
  • Handle in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to dust or vapors during processing.
• Safe Practices:
  • Avoid creating dust during handling of crystalline sorbitol.
  • Prevent prolonged contact with skin or eyes.
  • Ensure proper hygiene by washing hands after handling the product.

Spill and Leak Management:

• Small Spills:
  • For crystalline sorbitol, sweep up material and place it in a sealed container for disposal or reuse if uncontaminated.
  • For liquid sorbitol, use absorbent materials such as sand or paper towels and clean the area thoroughly.
• Large Spills:
  • Contain the spill with barriers to prevent spreading.
  • Remove using appropriate equipment and clean the area with water.

Disposal:

• Dispose of sorbitol and any contaminated materials in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Sorbitol is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it safe for disposal in most cases, but verify with local guidelines.