Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is naturally present in small amounts in various fruits and vegetables. The Finnish name for Xylitol is "koivusokeri", or birch sugar, a reference to the extraction of Xylitol from birch bark. NOW® Pure Xylitol is derived from a Non-GMO corn source. Considerable amounts of Xylitol is formed in the body every day as a result of normal metabolic processes. Although it is classified as a carbohydrate, this sweet crystalline substance is slowly absorbed from the digestive tract and does not cause rapid rises in blood glucose. In addition, the caloric impact of Xylitol is typically about 40% lower than other carbohydrates, making it a lower calorie addition to any diet. Discovered simultaneously by French and German chemists in 1891, Xylitol has been safely used since the 1970's as an ingredient in gums and candies. Dentists and Nutritionists alike encourage the use of Xylitol due to its unique and clinically proven dental benefits. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that cannot be utilized by bacteria in the mouth. The best thing about NOW® Xylitol is that it can take the place of the sugar you're already using. After all, it looks like sugar, tastes like sugar and pours just like regular sugar! Xylitol is a wise alternative for your sweet tooth.  Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 1 Teaspoon (4 g) Description Amount per Serving % Daily Value Not a significant source of other nutrients. Ingredient: Pure Xylitol Powder. NOW Real Food™ Pure Xylitol Powder is derived from corn and is the perfect healthy substitute for sugar in many cooking applications. For best results, simply replace each 1/2 teaspoon of sugar with an equivalent amount of xylitol powder.