Includes Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is a complex carbohydrate, a type of polysaccharide, made from starch. It is typically derived from corn, rice, or potato starch. The starch is broken down through a process called hydrolysis, creating a powder that dissolves easily.

Manufacturers use maltodextrin as a thickener, stabilizer, or filler ingredient. It adds bulk and texture to foods without significantly altering flavor. It is commonly found in processed foods like baked goods, sauces, snacks, and powdered drink mixes.

Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is a carbohydrate that can raise blood sugar levels, though typically less dramatically than pure sugar. It has been evaluated by EFSA, which has not set a numerical limit for its use. Some research suggests it may affect gut bacteria, but more studies are needed to understand the long-term impact.