Sorbitol
Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol with the chemical formula C₆H₁₄O₆, appearing as a white, crystalline, hygroscopic powder or syrup. It is widely used as a sweetener, humectant, and texturizing agent in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. This 25kg packaged product offers high purity sorbitol, soluble in water with a mildly sweet taste and low caloric value, making it a popular sugar substitute and stabilizer.
Uses
Primary Uses
Food Industry
- Sweetener: Used as a low-calorie sugar substitute in sugar-free and dietetic foods, chewing gums, candies, and baked goods.
- Humectant: Retains moisture in baked goods, confectionery, and processed foods to improve texture and shelf life.
- Bulking Agent: Provides bulk and texture in reduced-sugar formulations.
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Excipient: Used as a diluent and stabilizer in tablets and syrups.
- Laxative: Acts as an osmotic laxative in medical formulations.
- Oral Care: Ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash for moisture retention and sweetening without promoting tooth decay.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Humectant: Retains moisture in creams, lotions, and other topical products.
- Emollient: Enhances smoothness and texture of skin care formulations.
Secondary Uses
Industrial Applications
- Plasticizer: Used in the production of biodegradable plastics.
- Chemical Intermediate: Starting material for synthesis of vitamin C and surfactants.
Animal Feed
Feed Additive: Provides energy and improves palatability in animal nutrition.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): D-glucitol
- Common/Trade Name: Sorbitol, Glucitol
- CAS Number: 50-70-4
- HS Code: 2905.44.00
- Synonyms: Glucitol, Sorbitol syrup
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White crystalline powder or syrup
- Color & Odor: White; odorless
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water (230 g/100 mL at 20°C)
- Melting Point: 95–100°C (decomposes)
- Density: Approx. 1.49 g/cm³ (solid)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; oral LD₅₀ > 15,000 mg/kg (rat)
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational limits established
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat
- Container Type: 25kg bags or drums, sealed to prevent moisture absorption
- Shelf Life: 24 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid dust generation; use appropriate PPE in dusty environments
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for food use
- Complies with FDA, EU Food Additive Regulations
- REACH Registered
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental toxicity
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask if handling powder in bulk
- Handling Guidelines: Use adequate ventilation; avoid inhaling dust
- Storage Measures: Keep container tightly closed and dry
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; unlikely to cause harm
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; no expected irritation
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water if irritation occurs
- Ingestion: Non-toxic; in large quantities may cause laxative effect
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible when exposed to high heat or flame
- Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides