This volume is the continuation of a successful bookseries devoted to an increasingly vital subject: the utilization of carbohydrates as chemical raw materials. Sixteen contributions present an overview of current research thereby covering several new topics which were not dealt with in the preceeding volumes: – production and use of inulin – lactose: its manufacture and physico-chemical properties – lactic acid production and utilization – bulking agents: polydextrose – alkyl polyglucoside, a carbohydrate-based surfactant As more than sixty percent of the authors come from industry, this volume is the most practice-oriented of the series. Thus, this book will be a valuable tool for young as well as for experienced researchers working in the challenging field of upgrading renewable resources.