E421 - Mannitol

Author: Nia Rouseberg Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: January 27, 2026

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristics: Mannitol belongs to the group of stabilizers designed to preserve the consistency and viscosity of food products. Pectin is characterized by a similar action. To

Characteristic

Mannitol belongs to the group of stabilizers designed to preserve the consistency and viscosity of food products. Pectin is characterized by a similar action. The additive is a sweetener and is used as a sugar substitute; at the same time it is used as a means of preventing the formation of lumps in dairy products and mixtures.

E 421 has a transparent crystal structure and dissolves well in water. It is characterized by a sweet taste and is found in some plants. As a leavening agent, it is used against sticking of various mixtures.

Use

Mannitol is used in the food industry in the production of chewing gum and as a leavening agent. It is used in the manufacture of paints, varnishes and various resins and other surfactants. In some cases, the additive is used in perfumery, even in explosive mixtures.

Impact on humans

The food supplement E 421 has dehydrating properties due to increased reabsorption of water and increased plasma pressure, which leads to the release of large amounts of fluid.

The supplement is strictly prohibited for use by people with kidney disease and impaired circulation. Increased intake of the substance can lead to severe dehydration. Despite its adverse effects on humans, E 421 is widely used in pharmacology.

The use of mannitol can cause upset stomach. The permissible daily dose is a maximum of 15 grams. The additive is harmful to tooth enamel, is not an allergen, does not irritate the skin, but irritates the mucous membranes. The substance is prohibited for addition to baby and diet food.

E421 - Mannitol

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

Characteristic

Use

Impact on humans

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