Lactosucrose

Lactosucrose (4-G-β-D-galactosylsucrose, a trisaccharide of galactose-glucose-fructose) is a functional oligosaccharide that promotes the growth of Bifidobacterium in the human gut while inhibiting harmful bacteria — a prebiotic effect. Made commercially from sucrose and lactose using β-fructofuranosidases (transfructosylation), it is used as a low-calorie sweetener (about half the calories of sucrose, mild sweetness) in soft drinks, bakery products, confectionery and yoghurts in Japan — where it holds FOSHU (Food for Specified Health Uses) approval — and as a functional-food ingredient; it is non-cariogenic and well tolerated.