Xylitol: a versatile natural sweetener

Abstract

Xylitol, as a naturally occurring polyol, is not only widely used in the food industry as a sweetener and functional additive but also in medicine, chemicals, and other fields to show its unique value. This paper reviews its chemical properties, synthetic methods, biological functions, and applications in many fields, aiming to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for further research and application.

Introduction

Xylitol, also known as pententol, is a five-carbon sugar alcohol with the chemical formula C₅H₁₂O₅. It exists widely in a variety of plants in nature, such as birch, oak, corn cob, etc., and is an important intermediate in the metabolic process of these plants. Because of its unique chemical properties and biological functions, it has wide application prospects in food, medicine, the chemical industry, and other fields.

Chemical properties

Xylitol is a white crystalline powder, odorless, moisture-inducing. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. The melting point is high, the melting point of stable rhombic crystals is about 61 ~ 61.5℃, and the melting point of metastable monoclinic crystals is as high as 93 ~ 94.5℃. In addition, its metabolism in the body is independent of insulin, so it is safe for diabetics to eat.¹

Synthesis method

There are two main ways to synthesize xylitol: biological method and chemical method. The biological method mainly uses the metabolic pathway of microorganisms to convert the raw materials containing xylose into xylitol. This method has the advantages of environmental friendliness and high product purity, but the production cost is high. The conversion of xylose or other xylose-containing raw materials by chemical reactions, including steps such as hydrogenation, oxidation, and reduction. The chemical method has the advantages of simple operation and low cost, but it may produce environmental pollution and by-products.²

Biological functions

Xylitol has many functions in living organisms. First, it can act as an intermediate in sugar metabolism and participate in the energy metabolism process within the cell. Secondly, it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and other biological activities, and has a certain role in protecting the liver, reducing blood sugar, and preventing cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it can inhibit the growth of oral bacteria and reduce the occurrence of dental caries.³

Application in the food industry

Xylitol is widely used in the food industry. Because its sweetness is similar to sucrose, but it is low in calories and does not cause blood sugar to rise, it is suitable as a sweetener for diabetes patients and people who lose weight. In addition, it also has the effect of improving food taste, extending shelf life and preventing Browning. Therefore, it is widely used in sweets, pastries, beverages, and other foods.⁴

Application in the field of medicine

Xylitol also has important application value in the field of medicine. It can be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of diabetes and liver care drugs to help improve liver function and reduce transaminase. In addition, it can also inhibit the growth of human fat, which has certain help for weight loss. At the same time, because it can inhibit the growth of oral bacteria, it is also used in oral care products.

Application in the field of chemical industry

In the chemical industry, xylitol is mainly used in the production of surfactants, emulsifiers, plasticizers, and other chemicals. In addition, it can also be used as a solvent, lubricant, preservative, and so on. Because of its good biocompatibility and degradability, it is also regarded as a green chemical raw material.⁵

Conclusion and Prospect

Xylitol, as a multifunctional natural sweetener, has wide application prospects in food, medicine, the chemical industry, and other fields. With the continuous progress of science and technology and the improvement of people's health awareness, the research and application will be more in-depth and extensive. In the future, the potential value can be further exploited by optimizing the synthesis method, improving the purity of the product, and expanding the application field. At the same time, it is also necessary to pay attention to its possible side effects and safety risks to ensure its safe application in various field.

References

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2. Arca?o, Y. D.; García, O. D. V.; Mandelli, D.; Carvalho, W. A.; Pontes, L. A. M., Xylitol: A review on the progress and challenges of its production by chemical route. Catalysis Today 2020, 344, 2-14.

3. S?derling, E., Xylitol, mutans streptococci, and dental plaque. Advances in dental research 2009, 21 (1), 74-78.

4. M?kinen, K., Biochemical principles of the use of xylitol in medicine and nutrition with special consideration of dental aspects. 2013.

5. M?kinen, K. K., Sugar alcohol sweeteners as alternatives to sugar with special consideration of xylitol. Medical Principles and Practice 2011, 20 (4), 303-320.