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Gruene Biotechnologie Independent explanations: genetic engineering, plants and food Check a label

What is E 967?

Xylitol pastilles in a blue bowl
Xylitol pastilles in a blue bowl Photo: Kotivalo, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

E 967 is the E number of Xylitol. Sugar alcohol obtained, for example, from birch wood or corn cobs. It is typical of sugar-free chewing gum and sweets.

Where is E 967 most commonly used?

Xylitol is mainly found in sugar-free chewing gum and sugar-free sweets. It is increasingly sold as a sugar substitute for baking, too.

What is E 967 used for?

E 967 belongs to the group "Sweeteners" and is used as sweetener, humectant.

  • Sweetener: Sweeteners impart a sweet taste. They are used in foods or as table-top sweeteners.
  • Humectant: Humectants prevent foods from drying out.

Which foods may contain E 967?

According to the European Commission's database, E 967 may be used in 76 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

  • Dairy products and analogues
  • Fats and oils and fat and oil emulsions
  • Edible ices
  • Fruit and vegetables
  • Confectionery
  • Cereals and cereal products
  • Bakery wares
  • Meat
  • Fish and fisheries products
  • Eggs and egg products
  • Sugars, syrups, honey and table-top sweeteners
  • Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
  • Foods for specific groups (infants, young children, special medical purposes)
  • Beverages
  • Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
  • Desserts
  • Food supplements
  • Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17

Is E 967 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 967 linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).

In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.

How does E 967 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Sweetener: E 967" or "Sweetener: Xylitol".

  • Mandatory statement above 10 % added polyols: "Excessive consumption may produce laxative effects." (Annex III to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011).

Sources