Merck, X3375-500G, Xylitol

Xylitol is a naturally occurring five carbon sugar alcohol, equivalent to sucrose in sweetness. Xylitol finds applications in the preparation of confectionaries, chewing gum, toothpaste and mouthwashes. Xylitol is a low-energy sweetener with insulin independent metabolism, making it a promising alternative for sugar in diabetic patients. Xylitol is a natural anticaries agent used in the treatment of dental caries, as it is not utilized by cariogenic bacteria creates a starvation effect on them. Xylitol prevents otitis and upper respiratory tract infections. Commercially, microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and yeasts produce xylitol by fermentation.