Less Than 1%: Modified Food Starch

Modified food starch is a carbohydrate derived from common food starches like corn, potato, or tapioca. It is chemically or physically altered to improve its performance in food processing, such as its ability to withstand heat, cold, or acidity.

Manufacturers use modified food starch as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier. It helps improve the texture and consistency of foods, preventing ingredients from separating. You'll often find it in sauces, gravies, dairy products, baked goods, and processed meats.

Modified food starch is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated modified food starches. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from consuming modified food starch at typical dietary levels.