Xylitol (E967)

Xylitol (E967) is a sugar substitute. In people, large amounts act as a laxative. In dogs, small amounts can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and liver damage.

What it is

It occurs in sugar-free gum, sweets, mints, toothpaste, some peanut butters and baked goods. The label shows xylitol or E967.

How IngrediScan rates it

These levels come from the fixed rules in the IngrediScan app. A low level means the rules found little or no concern for that profile. It does not mean the ingredient is safe for everyone.

Profile	Food
Adult	Low
Child	Low
Infant	Low
Dog	High
Cat	Low

For dogs, the app treats xylitol as a serious risk. Published data link doses above 100 mg per kg body weight to a fast insulin release and low blood sugar, and doses above 500 mg per kg to liver necrosis. For cats and people, the app notes only the laxative effect. Sources differ on cats, so keep xylitol away from them too.

Basis of the ratings: limited or mixed data, errs on safety; published studies.

Possible concerns: Laxative, Liver toxicity, Low blood sugar.

The app's rationale (exact text)

Adult (food), Child (food), Infant (food): Polyol with laxative load above 10 percent; precautionary Low for humans.
Dog (food): Dogs: rapid insulin release with hypoglycemia above 100 mg per kg plus hepatic necrosis above 500 mg per kg; High.
Cat (food): Polyol with laxative load; precautionary Low for cats.

Rules and use

Authorised sweetener in the EU. A food with more than 10 % added polyols must carry the text "excessive consumption may produce laxative effects".

Read the guide: Human foods that are risky for dogs and cats

Sources

Related ingredients

Last reviewed: 2026-10

The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.