Is E965 halal?

What is E965?

Maltitol is a sugar alcohol (polyol) made from starch, usually from maize or wheat. The starch is broken down into maltose, a sugar, which is then hydrogenated. It tastes close to sugar but provides fewer calories, and it also comes as a syrup.

Why it's marked “Generally halal”

It is made from plant starch with enzymes and hydrogenation, with no animal or alcohol-based material. Despite the name “sugar alcohol”, it is not ethanol and does not intoxicate; the term only describes its chemical family.

How to check the label

No special check is needed. The words “sugar alcohol” or “polyol” on a label do not mean the product contains drinking alcohol.

Where you'll find it

• sugar-free chocolate
• sugar-free sweets
• chewing gum
• reduced-sugar biscuits
• ice cream

Good to know

• Foods with more than 10% added polyols must carry the EU warning “excessive consumption may produce laxative effects”.
• EU specifications describe maltitol as obtained by hydrogenation of D-maltose; maltitol syrup is the related form, E965(ii).

Similar additives

• E420 Sorbitol Generally halal
• E1422 Acetylated distarch adipate Generally halal
• E1442 Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate Generally halal
• E460 Cellulose Generally halal
• E950 Acesulfame K Generally halal
• E951 Aspartame Generally halal

See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker

This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.

Sources

1. EU additive specifications, Regulation (EU) No 231/2012 (E 965)
2. EU labelling rules, Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011, Annex III

Frequently asked questions