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
Hannah SeoXylitol 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
Barbara IntermillExamples of sugar alcohol in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Some gummies contain 2 to 5 grams of sugar each, plus sugar alcohols like maltitol or sorbitol that may cause gas or diarrhea in sensitive users, along with artificial colors or preservatives.
—Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026
These protein bars don't contain sugar alcohols, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort for some people.
—Jennifer Berger, Verywell Health, 8 June 2026
On top of that, the candy contains erythritol, a sugar alcohol, and allulose, an alternative sweetener.
—Ryan Brennan
june 5, Charlotte Observer, 5 June 2026
Sold direct-to-consumer and via Amazon, the bars are under 200 calories and are formulated without dairy, sugar alcohols or seed oils.
—Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019
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Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026
These protein bars don't contain sugar alcohols, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort for some people.
—Jennifer Berger, Verywell Health, 8 June 2026
On top of that, the candy contains erythritol, a sugar alcohol, and allulose, an alternative sweetener.
—Ryan Brennan
june 5, Charlotte Observer, 5 June 2026
Sold direct-to-consumer and via Amazon, the bars are under 200 calories and are formulated without dairy, sugar alcohols or seed oils.
—Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019
Cite this Entry
“Sugar alcohol.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sugar%20alcohol. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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