Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol, a polyol, produced by the reduction of glucose or fructose, and it also occurs naturally in fruits such as apples and pears. Also known as glucitol, it has approximately half the sweetness of sucrose, and digestion of sorbitol yields fructose, making it suitable as a sweetener for diabetic foods and sugar-free products. It also acts as a humectant, keeping foods moist. In larger amounts it has a laxative effect, because it is only partly absorbed, so products containing significant quantities must carry a warning in many jurisdictions. It is widely used in confectionery, chewing gum, and dietetic foods.