erythritol

Erythritol is a chemical compound, a sugar alcohol (or polyol), used as a food additive and sugar substitute. It is naturally occurring and is made from corn using enzymes and fermentation. Its formula is C4H10O4, or HO(CH2)(CHOH)2(CH2)OH; specifically, one particular stereoisomer with that formula.

Erythritol is 60–70% as sweet as sucrose (table sugar), yet it is almost noncaloric and does not affect blood sugar or cause tooth decay.

Erythritol was discovered in 1848 by Scottish chemist John Stenhouse. ...