Lycasin is a trade name given by Roquette for hydrogenated glucose syrup (hydrogenated starch hydrolysates).[1] One of the major components of Lycasin is maltitol, derived from the hydrogenation of maltose. Depending on the dextrose equivalent (DE) of the syrup used in the hydrolysis, a variety of products can be made, with the name "lycasin" normally being reserved for lycasin 80/55 (80 referring to the dry content and 55 to the dextrose equivalent). The other grades (e.g. 75/60 and 80/33) are referred to as Polysorb,[2] but should not be confused with the polyglycolic acid suture of the same name which is produced by a different company.[3]
Lycasin's known side effects in adults include bloating, intestinal gurgling or rumbling (borborygmi), and flatulence.[4] Some cases of extremely intense intestinal distress have been reported from consuming foods containing Lycasin, which led to many humorous reviews of German confectioner Haribo's Sugarless Gummy Bears.[5]