E965 — Maltitol
E965 (Maltitol), a sweetener, is rated "watch": fine in moderation. A sugar alcohol used in sugar-free chocolate and candies. Strong laxative effect at higher doses, and raises blood sugar more than other polyols.
What is Maltitol?
A sugar alcohol made from maltose, about 75 to 90% as sweet as sugar. Used in sugar-free chocolates, chewing gum, baked goods, and ice cream because it behaves like sugar in cooking.
What does it do to the body?
Your gut absorbs about a third; the rest pulls water into the intestines and ferments, causing gas, bloating, and diarrhea. More than 20 g in one sitting affects most people. Raises blood sugar more than erythritol or xylitol, so less suitable for diabetics than its marketing suggests.
What regulators say
EFSA and the FDA both approve it. EU labels above a threshold must carry the "excessive consumption may produce laxative effects" warning.
Risk rating: Watch
Mixed evidence or a specific concern (gut, allergy, or contested safety data). Not alarming, but worth keeping an eye on rather than eating without limit.