Overview

Sucrose polyester (SUE-krose pol-ee-ESS-ter) is an artificial fat available under the trade names of Olestra® or Olean®. The sucrose polyester molecule is quite large and cannot be absorbed or digested by the human digestive system. Since it cannot be digested, it provides no calories to one's diet. The compound is used primarily as an additive in snack treats targeted at people on a diet.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Sucrose octaoleate; sucrose ocatester

Formula:

See Overview

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Polyester (organic)

State:

Liquid or solid

Molecular Weight:

Varies

Melting Point:

Not applicable

Boiling Point:

Not applicable

Solubility:

Insoluble in water; soluble in many organic solvents

Sucrose polyester is one of many compounds developed by researchers in an effort to reduce the caloric intake of people trying to lose weight. Artificial sweeteners designed for this purpose include saccharin, cyclamates, aspartame, and acesulfame K. Sucrose...