Lycasin is a trade name given by Roquette for hydrogenated glucose syrup (hydrolysed starch). One of the major components of Lycasin is maltitol, derived from the hydrogenation of maltose. Depending on the dextrose equivalent (DE) of the syrup used in the hydrolysis, a variety of products can be made, with the name "lycasin" normally being reserved for lycasin 80/55 (80 referring to the dry content and 55 to the dextrose equivalent). The other grades (e.g. 75/60 and 80/33) are referred to as Polysorb, but should not be confused with the polyglycolic acid suture of the same name which is produced by a different company.
Lycasin's known side effects in adults include bloating, explosive diarrhea, intestinal gurgling or rumbling (borborygmi), and flatulence. Some cases of severe intestinal distress have been reported from consuming foods containing Lycasin, which led to many humorous reviews of German confectioner Haribo's Sugarless Gummy Bears.