E968: Erythritol (Zero-Calorie Fermented Polyol)

Direct Answer

E968 (Erythritol) is a four-carbon polyol produced by microbial fermentation of glucose by Moniliella pollinis. INS 968, ADI is Not Specified, delivering 70% the sweetness of sucrose with 0.0–0.2 kcal/g, zero GI, and 90% urinary excretion avoiding digestive distress.

Source: EFSA ANS Panel / US FDA GRAS · Last reviewed Aug 28, 2026

Specs

E-Number Code	E968
INS / Codex Number	INS 968
Functional Class	Non-Nutritive Bulk Sweetener, Flavor Enhancer, Humectant
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)	Not Specified (Highest digestive tolerance among all polyols: 0.66–0.80 g/kg bw)
Relative Sweetness Index	70% Sucrose
Caloric Value	0.2 kcal / g (Legal EU/US: 0.0 kcal / g) kcal/g
Glycemic Index (GI)	0 (Zero effect on blood glucose or insulin levels)
Common Target Foods	Keto baked goods, monk fruit/stevia blends (Swerve), zero-sugar confectionery
Dietary Compliance	100% Vegan (Yeast fermentation of corn glucose), Halal, Kosher, Non-GMO
Safety Approval	EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (GRN 76)

Why Erythritol Avoids Polyol GI Bloating

Because erythritol is a tiny 4-carbon molecule, 90% is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine via passive diffusion and excreted 100% intact in urine within 24 hours without reaching the colon for bacterial gas fermentation.