Erythritol

Erythritol is a four-carbon sugar alcohol produced through fermentation of glucose by Moniliella pollinis yeast, making it unique among polyols as it occurs naturally in fruits like grapes and melons. Unlike other sugar alcohols, it has near-zero caloric value (0.2 kcal/g) because approximately 90% is absorbed in the small intestine and excreted unchanged in urine, causing minimal digestive issues. In cosmetics, formulators value it for its excellent humectant properties, cooling sensation on skin, high tolerance (non-irritating), and ability to enhance product texture while providing a pleasant sensory profile without stickiness.