Barley Malt Extract
What is Barley Malt Extract?
Barley malt extract is a thick, sweet syrup made from malted barley grains. To make it, barley grains are first allowed to sprout (a process called malting), then dried, and steeped in water to release their natural sugars and other compounds. This liquid is then concentrated into an extract.
Is Barley Malt Extract vegan?
Barley Malt Extract is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Barley Malt Extract gluten-free?
However, because it is derived from barley, it contains gluten.
Is Barley Malt Extract a major allergen?
Barley malt extract is not considered one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA.
What is Barley Malt Extract used for?
Manufacturers add barley malt extract primarily as a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer.
Is Barley Malt Extract safe?
In the United States, barley malt extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended uses.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add barley malt extract primarily as a natural sweetener and flavor enhancer. It also contributes a golden-brown color to foods and can improve texture. It is commonly found in cereals, baked goods like cookies and biscuits, and some beverages.
Health notes
In the United States, barley malt extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its intended uses. It is a source of carbohydrates, mainly sugars, and is consumed as part of a regular diet. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated malt extract and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified). EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) has also evaluated malt extract. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety when consumed at typical levels.
Allergen info
Barley malt extract is not considered one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA. However, because it is derived from barley, it contains gluten.
Foods that contain Barley Malt Extract
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