Crystalline Fructose
Crystalline fructose is a natural monosaccharide (C₆H₁₂O₆, MW 180.16), produced by enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch or purification from sucrose/inulin. It is a white, odorless crystalline powder with 98%–102% purity (dry basis).
Key Properties (Factual Data)
Sweetness: 1.3–1.8× sucrose (the sweetest natural nutritive sweetener).
Solubility: 3.5 g/mL in water at 20°C; soluble in ethanol, insoluble in ether.
GI value: 19–23 (sucrose = 65), low glycemic.
Thermal stability: Apparent melting point 103–105°C; stable at pH 3–5, resists acid hydrolysis.
Humectancy: Absorbs 6%–12% moisture, inhibits starch retrogradation.
Purity specs: Glucose ≤0.5%, heavy metals (Pb) ≤5 mg/kg, HMF ≤0.1%.
Food Industry Applications
Beverages (largest use, ~42% share): Carbonated drinks, fruit juices, sports drinks, flavored water. Enhances fruit notes, no off-flavor, stable in acid, low viscosity.
Non-Food Uses
Pharmaceuticals: Oral syrups, chewable tablets, herbal formulations. Sweetens bitter tastes, stable excipient.
