Sorbose

Sorbose is a ketose belonging to the group of sugars known as monosaccharides. It has a sweetness that is equivalent to sucrose (table sugar). The commercial production of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) often begins with sorbose. L -Sorbose is the configuration of the naturally occurring sugar. It can be prepared from inexpensive O-benzylglucose.

Synthesis
Under conditions employed for a Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley reduction, the tetra-O-benzyl aldose converts to tetra-O-benzylsorbose. Hydrogenolysis removes the four benzyl groups, leaving sorbose.