Palatinose™ in Functional Nutrition and Beverage Applications

A Scientifically Validated Carbohydrate for Sustained Energy and Metabolic Stability

Palatinose™ (isomaltulose) is a fully digestible, low-glycaemic carbohydrate derived from sucrose through enzymatic rearrangement. Unlike conventional sugars, Palatinose™ delivers glucose and fructose in a slow, controlled manner, resulting in a prolonged and stable energy supply. This unique metabolic behavior has positioned Palatinose™ as a preferred carbohydrate source in advanced nutritional, sports, and medical nutrition formulations. Developed by BENEO, Palatinose™ is scientifically validated for sustained energy release and metabolic stability, making it highly suitable for functional beverage applications.

Chemical and Structural Characteristics

Palatinose™ is composed of glucose and fructose linked by an α-1,6-glycosidic bond, a structural configuration that significantly alters its digestive kinetics compared to sucrose (α-1,2 bond). This unique linkage slows digestion while remaining fully digestible, differentiating Palatinose™ from both fast sugars and polyols.


This structural difference results in:

• Slower enzymatic hydrolysis in the small intestine
• Gradual glucose absorption into the bloodstream
• Reduced insulin response
• Sustained energy release over time

This makes Palatinose™ particularly effective for endurance, cognitive performance, and long-duration energy requirements. From a formulation perspective, Palatinose™ behaves as a fully digestible carbohydrate while offering metabolic properties typically associated with low-glycaemic ingredients.

Metabolic Advantages and Physiological Performance

1. Low Glycaemic and Insulinaemic Response
Palatinose™ has a glycaemic index of approximately 32, significantly lower than that of sucrose (65). This controlled glycaemic response supports:

• Stable blood glucose levels
• Reduced insulin spikes
• Improved metabolic flexibility

Such properties make it highly suitable for individuals managing diabetes, metabolic health, or endurance performance. Clinical studies demonstrate improved glycaemic control and metabolic flexibility compared to conventional carbohydrates.


2. Sustained Energy Release
Unlike rapidly absorbed carbohydrates, Palatinose™ provides a prolonged and steady release of glucose, making it particularly effective in:

• Endurance sports nutrition
• Pre- and intra-workout formulations
• Meal replacement beverages
• Clinical and medical nutrition

This extended energy availability helps reduce fatigue and supports prolonged physical and cognitive performance.

3. Dental and Digestive Advantages
Palatinose™ is non-cariogenic and does not promote tooth decay. It is fully digested in the small intestine, avoiding fermentation in the oral cavity or colon. This property supports:

• Improved dental health
• Enhanced gastrointestinal tolerance
• Suitability for long-term consumption

4. High Processing and Thermal Stability
From a formulation standpoint, Palatinose™ demonstrates exceptional stability across processing conditions:

• Stable under high-temperature processing (UHT, HTST)
• Resistant to acid hydrolysis

Its robustness supports UHT, hot-fill, and aseptic beverage processing without degradation. This allows seamless integration into beverages, powders, gels, and ready-to-drink formulations without compromising product integrity.

Functional Applications of Palatinose™

Palatinose™ is widely used across multiple product categories, including:

• Sports & Performance Nutrition – sustained energy beverages, endurance gels
• Functional Beverages – metabolic health drinks, wellness tonics
• Medical Nutrition – enteral feeds, clinical nutrition solutions
• Bakery & Cereal Applications – low-GI baked goods and bars
• Dairy & Dairy Alternatives – nutritional shakes and fortified drinks

Its versatility enables manufacturers to create differentiated products backed by scientific evidence.

Why Choose Palatinose™ from SFA Food & Pharma Ingredients

At SFA Food & Pharma Ingredients, we offer pharmaceutical-grade Palatinose™ supported by formulation expertise and technical guidance.

Our Value Proposition:

• High-purity, globally compliant Palatinose™
• Technical support for formulation optimization
• Application-specific guidance for beverages, nutrition, and supplements
• Reliable sourcing and consistent supply chain

Partner With Us

If you are developing next-generation functional beverages or nutrition solutions and require a carbohydrate with proven metabolic benefits, Palatinose™ offers a scientifically validated foundation.