sugar alcohol

noun

plural sugar alcohols

: a polyalcohol that is typically derived from a sugar molecule (as of xylose or glucose), that occurs naturally in some plants or is manufactured by hydrogenating sugars, and that is often used as a low-calorie sweetener in foods (such as candy or chewing gum) and oral hygiene products (such as toothpaste or mouthwash)

Some sugar alcohols can be found in whole foods. Pineapples, olives, asparagus, sweet potatoes and carrots are natural sources of mannitol. … But the sugar alcohols often present in packaged products … are synthetically produced.

—Hannah Seo

Xylitol is safe for humans although it can cause diarrhea if consumed in large doses. This sugar alcohol has also been shown to help reduce bacteria in the mouth, which helps prevent cavities. That's why it's popular in sugar-free gums and candies.

—Barbara Intermill

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above