Isomaltulose

Isomaltulose (trade name: Palatinose) is a reducing disaccharide composed of glucose and fructose linked by an α-1,6 glycosidic bond. It derived from sugar beet and is industrially produced via enzymatic isomerization from sucrose. Isomaltulose appears as a white, odorless, free-flowing crystalline powder. It has a pure, sucrose-like sweetness with approximately 40%-50% the sweetness intensity of sucrose and no bitter or cooling aftertaste. It is fully digestible and provides energy comparable to sucrose, while being slowly hydrolyzed in the small intestine, leading to low glycemic index (GI ≈ 32) and low insulinemic responses. It shows very low hygroscopicity, excellent acid and heat stability, and non-cariogenic properties, making it a high-quality sugar substitute for healthy food, beverage, confectionery, sports nutrition, and pharmaceutical formulations.