Sorbitol (C6H14O6)
What is Sorbitol?
Sorbitol is a natural sugar alcohol with the chemical formula C6H14O6. It occurs naturally in many fruits, particularly in fruits such as cranberries and apples. On an industrial scale, it is produced by the hydrogenation of glucose obtained from corn starch.
- It is used in diet foods as a low-calorie sweetener.
- It is preferred in cosmetics and toothpaste due to its moisturizing properties.
- It is used as a stabilizer and carrier in drug formulations.
Sorbitol is an important compound in both food and industrial applications due to its low-calorie structure and versatile use.
Sorbitol Properties
Property | Explanation |
Physical State | Clear, colorless liquid |
Chemical Formula | C6H14O6 |
Molecular Weight | 182.17 g/mol |
Packaging Type | Barrel / Intermediate bulk container (IBC) |
Natural Resource | Natural fruit sugar alcohol |
In Which Industries Is Sorbitol Used?
Food Industry
- Sweetener, humectant, and thickener.
- Diet foods, confectionery, gum, chocolate, and fruit juices are used.
Cosmetics Industry
- As a moisturizer and softener in lotions, creams, shampoos, and toothpastes.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Stabilizer and flavor regulator in syrups.
- Excipient in tablets.
Chemical and Other Industries
- Contribution to the production of plastics, resins, and adhesives.
- Auxiliary component in textile dyeing and cigarette filters.
How is Sorbitol Produced?
Sorbitol production is achieved through the hydrogenation of glucose:
- Production of Glucose
- Glucose is obtained by the hydrolysis of cornstarch.
- Hydrogenation Reaction
- Glucose is reacted under pressure in the presence of hydrogen gas and a catalyst (usually nickel).
- During this process, glucose is converted into sorbitol.
- Purification and Crystallization
- The resulting sorbitol solution is purified and made ready for industrial use.
Sorbitol produced using this method is marketed in high purity and in a form suitable for food/cosmetic use.