Starch Ball

Starch balls, often called "boba" or "pearls," are small, chewy spheres made primarily from tapioca starch. Tapioca starch comes from the cassava root, a starchy tuber native to South America. The starch is mixed with water and often sweeteners, then formed into small balls and cooked until they have a distinct chewy texture.

Starch balls are most famously used as a chewy "pearl" or "boba" in bubble tea, adding a unique texture and a slightly sweet flavor. They can also be found in other desserts and beverages, such as puddings, ice cream, and fruit-flavored drinks, where their texture is a key appeal.

Starch balls are generally considered safe for consumption. They are made from tapioca starch, which is a common food ingredient. While they can be sweetened, they do not typically contain artificial additives that are subject to FDA regulation as additives. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated tapioca starch and found it to be safe for use in food. They are primarily a source of carbohydrates.