Xylitol
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener found in small amounts in fruits, vegetables, and hardwood trees such as birch, and it has been used commercially since the late 1800s after being first identified by European scientists. Historically, it was produced from plant materials as a naturally derived alternative to traditional sweeteners and became increasingly popular in the mid-20th century. Today, naturally sourced xylitol is commonly used in all-natural toothpastes, oral care products, chewing gums, and mints, where it provides a pleasant sweetness without the use of refined sugar.