Because maltitol is slowly absorbed by the body, part of the ingested substance reaches the large intestine where metabolism yields fewer calories. As a result, maltitol has just 2.1 calories per gram (kcal/g), nearly half of the caloric value of sucrose (4.0 kcal/g), and is therefore useful in the production of sugar-free products, especially sucrose-free chocolate, confectionery and ice cream. It’s basic and utilitarian, coming in white and grey, and is unlikely to be out on the counter when not in use. Is it good value for money?

Have multiple babies, use a lot of bottles per day or want to sterilise a variety of items including breast pumps, toys and dummies Maltitol is part of a family of bulk sweeteners called sugar alcohols (polyols). It is about 90% as sweet as sugar (sucrose) and is very similar in taste, but boasts significantly less calories (only 2.1 calories per gram). Like other polyols, maltitol is non-cariogenic – i.e. is not metabolised by oral bacteria which break down sugars and starches to release acids that may lead to cavities or the erosion of tooth enamelI used the tablets to sterilise some bottles whilst away. It made things a lot easier and meant I didn't have to take lots of equipment away with me. I have also used them for cleaning down surfaces like my child's toys. They worked particularly well on cleaning the straps on my highchair. I left them to soak overnight." Milton’s cold water sterilising solution has retained its foothold in the market for 70 years, even when competing with the design advances of electric steam and microwave models. There’s a simplicity and low-tech flexibility about it that lends itself well to scaling up for large piles of gear – one of the reasons it’s popular on maternity wards and with parents of multiple babies.

Maltitol’s advantages include it being non-cariogenic and having fewer calories than sugar Does not contribute to tooth decayThey also loved how reliable these sterilising tablets were, and love that Milton are such a trustworthy brand. The sterilising solution’s active agent is sodium hypochlorite, which is a bleach, but Milton manufacture it using a purification process that removes the heavy metal ions. The container is made from a sturdy plastic that won’t degrade and should stand up to any amount of rough handling.