Manitol (mannitol), sugar substitute, Texturas Ferran Adria, E 421

Manitol is an odorless crystalline polyol derived from fructose, algal sugars, or fungal sugars. It serves as a crystallizing agent in a wide variety of preparations. For example, manitol gives fruits a firm, crystalline coating that appears iced or frosted. Compared to sucrose, manitol has a low sweetness (50-60%) and is therefore suitable as a sugar substitute (mannitol) for diabetics. However, it is not suitable for retaining moisture in preparations. Manitol is soluble in cold water; the powder dissolves even better when heated. Please take care during processing: the product can become very hot!