What is E967?

E967 is Xylitol — a plant-based sugar alcohol that actively protects teeth — safe for humans but extremely toxic to dogs.

What is E967 (Xylitol)?

E967 is the E-number for xylitol, one of the artificial & intense sweeteners group of food additives (E900–E999). Additives in this group sweeten foods with fewer or zero calories than sugar. A sugar alcohol made from plant material such as birch or corn cobs. Xylitol is the only common sweetener with proven dental benefits — it starves the bacteria that cause tooth decay. But it is life-threateningly toxic to dogs, causing rapid insulin release and liver failure even in small amounts. Like every E-number, E967 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E967 in detail below.

Where is E967 found?

E967 is typically used in diet soft drinks, sugar-free gum, desserts, yoghurts and low-calorie foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E967) or by its full name, xylitol. Common foods that may contain E967 include:

• Sugar-free chewing gum
• Mints
• Toothpaste
• Diabetic products
• Baking substitutes

Full guide: foods containing E967 and how to spot it on labels →

E967 is often searched by its common name — see also: Is Xylitol safe?

Is E967 safe?

Is E967 vegan?

E967 is vegan. A sugar alcohol made from plant material such as birch or corn cobs, with no animal involvement in standard production.

Is E967 halal?

E967 is halal. A sugar alcohol made from plant material such as birch or corn cobs, with no haram source involved.

Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).