xylitol

noun

xy·​li·​tol ˈzī-lə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a crystalline alcohol C₅H₁₂O₅ that is a derivative of xylose, is obtained especially from birch bark, and is used as a sweetener

Examples of xylitol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Three of the seven sugar substitutes involved in the study—erythritol, sorbitol, and xylitol—belong to a category known as sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners that can be found in sweet treats like candy, ice cream, baked goods, and protein bars (and can cause digestive symptoms), for example. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 27 Feb. 2026

Grapes, raisins, chocolate, gum, anything with xylitol in it, onions, and garlic, can all be harmful to your animal. —Angela Hatem, Parents, 10 Feb. 2026

Remember to avoid chocolate goods, anything with a sugar substitute known as xylitol, and fatty table scraps after a holiday meal. —Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 21 Dec. 2025

Small pieces can be choking hazards and ingredients like chocolate, raisins and xylitol are dangerous for your pet to eat, so keep your candy bowl far out of reach. —Kelsey Monstrola, USA Today, 30 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

xylitol

noun

xy·​li·​tol ˈzī-lə-ˌtȯl  -ˌtōl 

: a crystalline alcohol C₅H₁₂O₅ that is a derivative of xylose, is obtained especially from birch bark, and is used as a sweetener