Zint Xylitol is harvested naturally from non-GMO corn, though xylitol can also be derived from other fibrous vegetation and hardwood trees such as birch. As a sugar alcohol, xylitol is a completely natural sweetener, not to be confused with artificial sweeteners that have known toxicity problems. Xylitol's hybrid of one sugar molecule and one alcohol molecule results in a sweet taste that is instantly picked up by your tongue's receptors. It has 40% fewer calories than sugar, 75% fewer carbohydrates, no unpleasant aftertaste, and a low glycemic index score, making it a perfect natural substitute for sugar. Just like sugar, it can used as a sweetener in any food or drink. In recipes that call for sugar, simply substitute the same amount of xylitol.