Foreword

Abstract

Polyols and non-polyol LDCs are considered safe to consume, although in the case of monosaccharide polyols with moderation. In the event of gastrointestinal discomfort and/or excess laxation, reducing or stopping one's intake can mitigate symptoms. Occasional gastrointestinal disturbance is a fact of life for most people and may potentially arise because of consumption of naturally occurring LDCs in the diet. The potential risk of gastrointestinal symptoms that arise from excess consumption of LDCs added to the diet must be balanced against their beneficial health effects, notably reduced cariogenicity, reduced energy value, prebiotic effects, low glycaemia, and the possible benefit in the long term of a lower risk of cancer of the colon. It should be considered that many Western, nutritionally linked, diseases such as dental caries, obesity, diabetes, and colorectal cancer are difficult to treat, let alone reverse and LDCs (both naturally occurring in the diet and as added ingredients in foods) may have a significant role to play in their prevention. A prime example has been the development of consumer products made with polyols to enable the consumer to have access to alternative healthier confectionery; essentially sweets that can be consumed for pleasure without the worry of either dental caries or excess energy intake. Those individuals who find themselves sensitive to the effects of polyol ingestion (or other non-polyol LDCs) can limit, or stop their intake with no further effects. Furthermore, manufacturers of polyol-based confectionery have restricted the portion size compared to classical sucrose-based confectionery and new sugar substitutes with good gastrointestinal tolerance are being developed. The symposium highlighted a concern over the current regulatory status of polyols in the EU and how this limits the future development of beneficial, functional foods for the consumer.