Mini Multi-colored Candies: Dextrose

Dextrose is a simple sugar, a type of carbohydrate, that is chemically identical to glucose. It is typically derived from corn or other plant starches through a process called hydrolysis, which breaks down the starch into simpler sugar molecules. Dextrose is often sold as a white crystalline powder.

Manufacturers add dextrose primarily as a sweetener, providing a less sweet taste than sucrose (table sugar). It also functions as a bulking agent and can help with browning in baked goods. It is commonly found in baked goods, candies, and processed foods.

In the US, dextrose is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. Like other simple sugars, consuming large amounts can contribute to increased calorie intake. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated dextrose, and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also assessed its use. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.