Ingredient

Malto Dextrin

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add maltodextrin as a thickener, stabilizer, or bulking agent. It can also be …

What is Malto Dextrin?

Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide, a type of carbohydrate, made from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It is produced by breaking down starch through hydrolysis, a process that uses water and enzymes or acids.

Is Malto Dextrin vegan?

Malto Dextrin is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Malto Dextrin gluten-free?

If derived from wheat, it is highly purified, and gluten is generally not present.

Is Malto Dextrin a major allergen?

Maltodextrin is not one of the nine major allergens.

What is Malto Dextrin used for?

Manufacturers add maltodextrin as a thickener, stabilizer, or bulking agent.

Is Malto Dextrin safe?

Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add maltodextrin as a thickener, stabilizer, or bulking agent. It can also be used to improve texture and mouthfeel in processed foods. You can find it in items like seasoning mixes, marinades, cheese spreads, and snacks.

Health notes

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. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated maltodextrin. Evidence does not suggest significant health concerns at typical consumption levels.

Allergen info

Maltodextrin is not one of the nine major allergens. If derived from wheat, it is highly purified, and gluten is generally not present.

Foods that contain Malto Dextrin

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.