sugar extenders

Sugar extenders are flavor ingredients designed to improve sweetness and transform the sensory profile of products sweetened with Stevia and other alternative sweeteners. These compounds are often referred to as sweetness extenders or by trade names such as treattsweet. They belong to a category of functional flavor enhancers that address flavor profile challenges associated with natural and artificial sweeteners by enhancing perceived sweetness quality. Typically appearing as components in complex formulations, sugar extenders do not contribute significant flavor notes themselves but modulate the overall sweetness perception. As a class of flavor-modifying agents, sugar extenders are used extensively in food science to optimize consumer acceptance of reduced-sugar products. More detailed chemical structure and sourcing information can be accessed through controlled vocabulary links such as PubChem. These ingredients are usually derived or formulated from natural or synthetic sources to enhance sweetener performance.

Sugar extenders occur in formulations targeting enhancement of sweet taste in products relying on alternative sweeteners like Stevia. They are applied primarily in the food and beverage industry to improve sweetness perception and overall flavor quality where sugar reduction is desirable. This type of ingredient addresses the sensory shortcomings of certain high-intensity sweeteners by masking bitterness or lingering off-notes and increasing sweetness appeal. Sugar extenders are recognized within flavor application standards such as FEMA (US), which monitors flavor ingredient safety and usage. Their potential uses span confectionery, beverages, dairy products, and nutraceutical formulations where sugar content reduction is prioritized without compromising taste.

Sugar extenders typically exhibit physico-chemical properties compatible with aqueous and food matrix environments, often showing good solubility and stability under standard preparation and storage conditions. Their mechanism of action involves interaction with sweet taste receptors or modulation of flavor molecules to enhance sweetness perception rather than contributing distinct flavor themselves. These compounds are generally stable over a broad range of temperatures and pH values commonly found in food processing, making them practical for incorporation in diverse product types. The absence of significant toxicity classification suggests favorable handling characteristics during formulation. Their discreet sensory profile combined with functional stability facilitates their integration with various sweetening agents.

Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
sweeteners, flavor enhancers
Recommendation for sugar extenders usage levels up to:
	not for fragrance use.

Safety references

None found