What is "lactitol"

n. (context organic compound English) A sugar alcohol, ''4-O-α-D-galactopyranosyl-D-glucitol'', derived from lactulose; it is used as an artificial sweetener (E966)

Lactitol is a sugar alcohol used as a replacement bulk sweetener for low calorie foods with approximately 40% of the sweetness of sugar. It is also used medically as a laxative. Lactitol is produced by two manufacturers, Danisco and Purac Biochem.