Erythritol vs. Sucralose

Attribute	Erythritol	Sucralose
Sweetness	60-80% as sweet as sucrose	600 times sweeter than sucrose
Caloric content	0.2 calories per gram	0 calories per gram
Source	Naturally occurring in fruits and fermented foods	Synthesized from sucrose
Digestibility	90% absorbed in the small intestine but not metabolized	Not metabolized by the body

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a sugar substitute, there are many options available on the market. Two popular choices are erythritol and sucralose. Both of these sweeteners offer a way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the negative effects of sugar. In this article, we will compare the attributes of erythritol and sucralose to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Taste

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is naturally found in some fruits and fermented foods. It has a taste that is very similar to sugar, with a clean, sweet flavor and no bitter aftertaste. Sucralose, on the other hand, is an artificial sweetener that is made from sugar. It is much sweeter than sugar, with a taste that is often described as being more intense and slightly artificial. Some people may find the taste of sucralose to be too overpowering, while others may prefer its intense sweetness.

Caloric Content

One of the main reasons people choose sugar substitutes is to reduce their calorie intake. Erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that contains about 0.2 calories per gram. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to cut back on calories without sacrificing sweetness. Sucralose, on the other hand, is a zero-calorie sweetener. This means that it provides sweetness without adding any calories to your diet. If you are looking to reduce your calorie intake, sucralose may be the better option for you.

Digestibility

Erythritol is known for being easily digestible and is unlikely to cause digestive issues such as bloating or gas. This is because most of the erythritol you consume is absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted unchanged in the urine. Sucralose, on the other hand, is not absorbed by the body and passes through the digestive system without being metabolized. While this means that sucralose does not contribute to calorie intake, some people may experience digestive discomfort when consuming sucralose due to its indigestibility.

Health Concerns

Both erythritol and sucralose have been approved for use by regulatory agencies such as the FDA. However, some people may have concerns about the long-term health effects of consuming artificial sweeteners. Erythritol is generally considered to be safe for most people, with few reported side effects. Sucralose has also been deemed safe for consumption, but some studies have suggested that it may have negative effects on gut health by altering the balance of bacteria in the gut microbiome. If you have concerns about the health effects of artificial sweeteners, you may want to choose erythritol over sucralose.

Availability and Cost

Erythritol is widely available in stores and online, making it easy to find and purchase. It is also relatively affordable compared to some other sugar substitutes. Sucralose is also readily available in stores and online, but it may be slightly more expensive than erythritol. If cost and availability are important factors for you, erythritol may be the better choice.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between erythritol and sucralose, there are several factors to consider. Erythritol offers a taste that is similar to sugar, low caloric content, and easy digestibility. Sucralose, on the other hand, is much sweeter than sugar, contains no calories, and is widely available. Ultimately, the choice between these two sweeteners will depend on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Consider the attributes of each sweetener carefully before making your decision.