Taco Seasoning: Maltodextrin
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What it is
Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide made from starch, usually from corn, rice, potato, or wheat. It is produced through a process called hydrolysis, where starch is broken down into smaller sugar units. It appears as a white powder and is easily digestible.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add maltodextrin to foods as a thickener, a bulking agent, or a sweetener. It can also be used to improve the texture and mouthfeel of processed foods. It is commonly found in baked goods, sauces, salad dressings, and powdered drink mixes.
Health notes
Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is a carbohydrate that can raise blood sugar levels, so individuals managing diabetes should be mindful of its presence in foods. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated maltodextrin, and it is widely used globally.
Allergen info
Maltodextrin is not one of the 9 FDA major allergens. If derived from wheat, it may contain gluten, but processing typically removes gluten proteins.