Erythritol vs. Splenda — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 29, 2023
Erythritol is a natural sugar alcohol with no calories. Splenda is a brand-name sweetener derived from sucralose with added fillers. Both are sugar substitutes but differ in composition and origin.
Difference Between Erythritol and Splenda
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Origin & Composition: Erythritol is a sugar alcohol naturally found in certain fruits and fermented foods. It is often extracted from corn. On the other hand, Splenda is a branded product with its primary ingredient being sucralose, a chemically modified form of sugar.
Caloric Value & Sweetness: Erythritol contains almost zero calories and is about 70% as sweet as table sugar. Splenda, though calorie-free in small amounts, contains fillers like maltodextrin and dextrose which may contribute calories in larger quantities. Splenda is significantly sweeter than sugar, necessitating lesser amounts for a similar sweetness level.
Digestive Impact: Erythritol is known for being easily tolerated by the digestive system, with minimal side effects when consumed in reasonable amounts. Splenda, particularly because of sucralose, can have varying digestive effects on individuals, with some reports of bloating or gas.
Usage & Versatility: Erythritol is commonly used in baking and cooking because it doesn't degrade under heat. Splenda, while versatile and heat-stable, might not always replicate the texture and bulk of sugar in recipes.
Popularity & Accessibility: While Erythritol has gained popularity among health enthusiasts and the keto community, Splenda, due to its brand recognition, is widely available in grocery stores and often provided in packets at restaurants and cafes.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Natural sugar alcohol from fruits and fermented foods
Branded product; primary ingredient is chemically derived
Sweetness Level
About 70% as sweet as sugar
Much sweeter than sugar
Caloric Value
Nearly zero calories
Calorie-free in small amounts; fillers can add calories
Digestive Impact
Generally well-tolerated
Varies; potential for bloating or gas
Usage in Cooking
Doesn't degrade under heat; good for baking
Versatile; may not always replicate sugar's texture
Compare with Definitions
Erythritol
A naturally occurring sugar alcohol.
Erythritol is found in some fruits like pears.
Splenda
Widely recognized and available in many places.
At most restaurants, you can find Splenda packets alongside sugar.
Erythritol
Easily digestible sugar substitute.
Many people switch to erythritol because it's gentler on the stomach.
Splenda
A brand-name sweetener containing sucralose.
She sweetens her coffee with a packet of Splenda.
Erythritol
A low-calorie sweetener.
Using erythritol in baking can reduce the calorie content.
Splenda
Suitable for a range of culinary applications.
Splenda can be used in both hot and cold beverages.
Erythritol
Heat-stable for cooking and baking.
Erythritol remains stable when making caramel sauce.
Splenda
Contains additional fillers like maltodextrin.
Besides sucralose, Splenda has fillers to give it volume.
Erythritol
Popular among ketogenic dieters.
For her keto diet, Jenna prefers erythritol over regular sugar.
Splenda
Often used as a zero-calorie sugar substitute.
With Splenda, his tea tasted sweet without the extra calories.
Erythritol
(organic compound) A tetrahydric sugar alcohol (2R,3S)-butane-1,2,3,4-tetraol that occurs in some fruit; it is used as a sugar substitute
Common Curiosities
Can I use Erythritol in baking?
Yes, Erythritol is heat-stable and suitable for baking.
Which sweetener might be better for the keto diet?
Erythritol is popular among keto dieters due to its zero glycemic impact.
Is Splenda a natural sweetener?
No, Splenda's main ingredient, sucralose, is chemically derived from sugar.
What is the primary component of Erythritol?
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol naturally found in certain fruits.
Does Splenda contain any calories?
In small quantities, Splenda is calorie-free, but fillers can add calories in larger amounts.
Can Erythritol cause digestive discomfort?
In large amounts, it can for some people, but it's generally well-tolerated.
Is Erythritol safe for diabetics?
Generally, yes. Erythritol has no impact on blood sugar or insulin.
How sweet is Erythritol compared to sugar?
Erythritol is about 70% as sweet as table sugar.
Can Splenda replace sugar in recipes 1:1?
Not always. Due to its high sweetness, you may need less Splenda than sugar.
Does Splenda have any aftertaste?
Some people report a slight aftertaste with Splenda, but it varies by individual.
Is Splenda suitable for all cooking applications?
Splenda is versatile but might not replicate sugar's texture in all recipes.
Is Splenda the same as sucralose?
Splenda contains sucralose, but it also includes other fillers like maltodextrin.
What are the fillers in Splenda?
Splenda often contains maltodextrin and dextrose as fillers.
How is Erythritol produced commercially?
It's often extracted from corn through a fermentation process.
Are there any concerns with consuming Erythritol?
As with many sweeteners, moderation is key, but Erythritol is generally considered safe.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
