Allulose is a low-calorie sweetener known chemically as D-psicose. It shares a similar structure with fructose but is not significantly metabolized by the human body, which means it provides minimal calories. Here is a detailed introduction to allulose:
General Information | |
Parameter | Details |
Product Name | Allulose |
Chemical Name | D-Psicose |
Molecular Formula | C6H12O6 |
CAS Number | 551-68-8 |
Appearance | White crystalline powder |
Physical and Chemical Properties | |
Parameter | Specification |
Purity | ≥ 98% |
Sweetness | ~70% of sucrose |
Solubility | Highly soluble in water |
Melting Point | 58-60°C |
Specific Rotation | -33° to -35° |
Functional Properties | |
Property | Details |
Browning | Similar to sucrose, ideal for baking |
Freezing Point Depression | Effective in frozen desserts to improve texture |
Stability | Stable under high temperature and acidic conditions |
Regulatory Status | |
Region | Status |
FDA | Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) |
EU | Approved for use in specific applications |
Japan | Approved as a food additive |
Labeling | Often not required to be included in total or added sugars due to minimal caloric contribution |
Storage and Shelf Life | |
Condition | Specification |
Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight |
Shelf Life | 2 years from the date of manufacture in unopened packaging |
Packaging | |
Available Sizes | Details |
Packaging Sizes | 25 kg bags, 1 kg packs, or customized packaging upon request |
Packaging Material | Food-grade polyethylene bags within cardboard boxes or drums |
Applications | |
Application | Details |
Food and Beverage | Used in baked goods, beverages, dairy products, sauces, and dressings |
Dietary Products | Suitable for use in low-calorie, diabetic-friendly, and keto products |
Pharmaceuticals | Utilized as an excipient in certain medicinal formulations |
Quality Assurance | |
Certifications | Details |
Certifications | ISO, HACCP, Kosher, Halal (depending on supplier) |
Testing Methods | Compliant with international standards for food safety and quality |
1. Sweetening Agent
Sweetness: Allulose provides about 70% of the sweetness of sucrose (table sugar), making it a suitable alternative for those looking to reduce sugar intake without sacrificing taste.
2. Low-Calorie Content
Caloric Value: Allulose contains roughly 0.2-0.4 calories per gram, significantly lower than the 4 calories per gram in sucrose, making it an excellent choice for calorie-conscious consumers.
3. Blood Sugar and Insulin Impact
Minimal Impact: Allulose has a minimal effect on blood glucose and insulin levels, which is beneficial for individuals managing diabetes or those looking to maintain steady blood sugar levels.
4. Digestive Health
Tolerance: Allulose is well-tolerated in moderate amounts and does not cause significant gastrointestinal discomfort, unlike some other low-calorie sweeteners.
5. Functional Properties in Food
Baking and Browning: Allulose behaves similarly to sugar in baking, contributing to the browning and texture of baked goods. This makes it ideal for use in cookies, cakes, and other baked items.
Solubility: It dissolves well in liquids, making it suitable for beverages, syrups, and sauces.
Freezing Point Depression: Allulose can lower the freezing point of products, which is beneficial in making ice creams and other frozen desserts smoother and less icy.
6. Taste Profile
Clean Taste: Allulose offers a clean, sweet taste with no aftertaste, which is a common issue with many artificial sweeteners.
7.Weight Management
Caloric Reduction: Using allulose instead of sucrose can help reduce overall calorie intake, supporting weight management and obesity prevention efforts.
8. Versatility in Applications
Food and Beverages: Allulose is versatile and can be used in a wide range of products, including baked goods, dairy products, beverages, sauces, and dressings.
Diet and Health Products: Its low-calorie and low-glycemic properties make it ideal for diet, diabetic-friendly, and keto products.
9. Safety and Regulatory Status
Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS): The FDA has classified allulose as GRAS, and it is approved for use in many countries around the world.
Labeling: In some regions, allulose is not required to be counted as part of the total or added sugars on nutrition labels due to its minimal caloric contribution and unique metabolic profile.