E-number  · E420

E420 — Sorbitol

Sugar alcohol from corn starch or fruit. Vegan.

The entry Reference notes, kept short.

What it is

E420 is sorbitol, a sugar alcohol produced by hydrogenating glucose syrup (from corn starch).

Why it matters

Low-calorie sweetener and humectant. In sugar-free gum, sweets, ice cream alternatives, toothpaste, and mouthwash. The closely-related E421 mannitol is also a vegan sugar alcohol.

What to do

Always vegan.

Sources Where the entry is drawn from.
  • Vegan Society additives database