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Erythritol VS AlluMonk

Erythritol is a sugar substitute that is becoming increasingly popular due to its zero-calorie content and its ability to mimic the taste of sugar. It is a natural sweetener found in certain fruits like watermelons, grapes, and pears, and it is also produced through a fermentation process of corn starch.

Despite its increasing popularity, some studies have suggested a potential link between erythritol and cancer. In this blog post, we'll explore what erythritol is, how it is used, and what the current research says about its potential link to cancer.

What is Erythritol?

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is used as a sugar substitute in various food products. It has a similar sweetness to sugar but contains only a fraction of the calories. This makes it an attractive option for people looking to reduce their sugar intake or manage their blood sugar levels.

Erythritol is a natural sweetener that occurs in some fruits, but the majority of the erythritol used in food products is produced through a fermentation process of corn starch. During the fermentation process, yeast or bacteria consume the glucose found in corn starch, producing erythritol as a byproduct.

Erythritol is commonly used in sugar-free chewing gum, candies, and other processed foods. It is also used as a sweetener in beverages, protein powders, and other health supplements.

What is the link between Erythritol and Cancer?

While erythritol is generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies such as the FDA, some studies have suggested a potential link between erythritol and cancer.

A 2017 study published in the Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis journal found that erythritol caused DNA damage and mutations in human cells in vitro. The researchers suggested that these findings raised concerns about the safety of erythritol as a food additive.

Another study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology in 2018 found that erythritol increased the incidence of colon tumors in rats when given in high doses over an extended period. The researchers concluded that erythritol may have potential carcinogenic effects on the colon in rats.
However, it is important to note that these studies were conducted in vitro or on animal models, and the findings may not be applicable to humans. More research is needed to determine whether erythritol poses a risk to human health.

What does the FDA say about Erythritol?

The FDA has classified erythritol as a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) substance, meaning that it is considered safe for human consumption at current levels of use.

The FDA has established an acceptable daily intake (ADI) for erythritol of up to 1.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. This means that a 150-pound person could safely consume up to 122 grams of erythritol per day without any adverse health effects.

However, it is important to note that consuming large amounts of erythritol can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Therefore, it is recommended to consume erythritol in moderation and to gradually increase the amount to avoid any adverse effects.

In conclusion, while some studies have suggested a potential link between erythritol and cancer, the FDA has classified erythritol as a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) substance. It is important to consume erythritol in moderation and to gradually increase the amount to avoid any adverse effects.

If you have concerns about the safety of erythritol or any other food additive, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian.

Does ChipMonk Use Erythritol?

Nope! Here at ChipMonk Baking we use a special blend of allulose and monk fruit called AlluMonk. The blend makes for a unique low calorie, all-natural sweetener that does not impact blood sugar or have a cooling effect. These are just some of the reasons we love using this blend! For more about AlluMonk checkout our blog about it: What's So Special About AlluMonk?

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