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Use Caution

Some concerns raised; more research may be needed

Safe
Avoid
Use Caution
Erythritol
US EU UK +7

Erythritol

E968 Sweetener Use Caution 1 min read

At a Glance

Safety Rating
Use Caution
Category
Sweetener
E-Number
E968
Banned Somewhere?
No
Controversy Level
High

Quick Answer

Erythritol (E968) is rated "Use Caution" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).

On This Page

What is Erythritol?

Sugar alcohol. Zero calorie. Recent cardiovascular concerns being studied

Also known as: swerve

Regulatory Status by Country

🇺🇸 US

Approved (GRAS)
Agency: FDA

US name: Erythritol

GRAS. 2023 Cleveland Clinic study linked to cardiovascular events — under further study

🇪🇺 EU

Approved
Agency: EFSA

Sugar alcohol. Zero calorie. Recent cardiovascular concerns being studied

🇬🇧 UK

Same as EU pre-Brexit
Agency: FSA

UK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications

🇯🇵 Japan

Approved
Agency: MHLW

Japanese: エリスリトール

Approved. Popular in Japan

🇨🇦 CA

Approved
Agency: Health Canada

Generally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.

🇦🇺 AU/NZ

Approved
Agency: FSANZ

Generally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.

🇮🇳 India

Approved
Agency: FSSAI

Widely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.

🇰🇷 KR

Approved
Agency: MFDS

Generally aligned with Japanese standards. Regulated by MFDS.

🇧🇷 Brazil

Approved
Agency: ANVISA

Generally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.

🇨🇳 China

Approved
Agency: GB 2760

Permitted under GB 2760 national standard.

Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.

Expert Analysis

Erythritol is classified as a sweetener in the food additive regulatory framework. While approved for use, some scientific studies have raised questions that warrant ongoing monitoring. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. Erythritol remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.

Is Erythritol safe?

Erythritol has a safety rating of "Use Caution". Some concerns raised; more research may be needed

Is Erythritol vegan?

Erythritol is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.

Is Erythritol banned in Europe?

No, Erythritol is Approved in the EU.

What is Erythritol made from?

Sugar alcohol. Zero calorie. Recent cardiovascular concerns being studied

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Erythritol safe?
Erythritol has a safety rating of "Use Caution" based on regulatory data from 10 countries including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more. Some concerns raised; more research may be needed Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Is Erythritol banned in any country?
Erythritol is currently approved in major markets including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more, though specific regulations and permitted uses may vary between countries.
What is Erythritol used for?
Erythritol is a food additive in the "Sweetener" category. Sugar alcohol. Zero calorie. Recent cardiovascular concerns being studied

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