Maltitol Project (MC-Towa International Sweeteners)

Mitsubishi Company (Thailand) Limited (BKK), Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), and Towa Chemical Industry (Towa), a world leader in Maltitol production, jointly established a new joint venture company in August 2003. It is named MC-Towa International Sweeteners Co., Ltd. (MTIS). BKK's shareholding in MTIS is 7% while MC holds 53% and Towa invests 40%. MTIS will produce the low-caloric sweetener called Maltitol.

Maltitol is a member of the polyol family of sweeteners, also known as sugar alcohols. It is about 90% as sweet as sugar, and is used in chewing gum, chocolates, cakes, cookies, and other products.

What special about Maltitol is that it lets people enjoy the sweetness of sugar without suffering sugary drawbacks. Maltitol does not raise blood glucose, so it is safe for the diabetics. Nor does it cause tooth decay. In addition, Maltitol has barely one-half the calories of sugar, so it is friendly to those who are on diet.

MTIS factory is being constructed in Map Ta Phut, Rayong province. MTIS will start operation in the middle of 2005 to export Maltitol to Japan, Europe, USA and other markets. Fine & Inorganic Chemicals Dept. will also promote Maltitol in Thailand for consumers concerned about their waistlines.