Xylitol is a white crystalline powder with a sweetness similar to that of sucrose, but only half the calories of sucrose. This sugar alcohol is widely used in food and medical products, and its low calories and sweet taste make it an ideal sugar substitute. Xylitol has significant advantages in oral health. Studies have shown that xylitol can effectively reduce tooth erosion, prevent the formation of tooth decay, and reduce the formation of dental plaque. Because xylitol can inhibit the growth of bacteria in the mouth, especially Streptococcus mutans that causes tooth decay, it helps keep teeth strong, clean the mouth, and improve breath.

Therefore, xylitol is often added to chewing gum, toothpaste, and mouthwash to enhance its cleaning and protective effects. For diabetic patients, xylitol provides an excellent nutritional sugar substitute. Because xylitol is metabolized differently from sucrose in the body, it does not significantly affect blood sugar levels, so it is widely recommended for diabetic patients. In addition, xylitol can promote the synthesis of liver glycogen, improve liver function, fight fatty liver, and help improve the health of patients with liver disease. In the food industry, xylitol is widely used as a functional sweetener. It can not only replace sucrose to provide sweetness, but also does not add too much calories, thus meeting consumers' demand for low-calorie sweetness. Xylitol is widely used in low-sugar or sugar-free foods and beverages, such as chewing gum, candy, biscuits and condiments. Its low calories and oral health benefits make it a preferred ingredient for food manufacturers and healthy eaters.