If you’ve ever scanned the ingredients list on a packaged food item, you’ve probably come across the word “maltodextrin.” It’s a common food additive, often used as a thickener, filler, or sweetener. But what exactly is maltodextrin, and is it safe to consume?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this ubiquitous ingredient.
What is Maltodextrin?
Maltodextrin is a type of carbohydrate derived from starch. Starch is a complex carbohydrate made up of long chains of glucose molecules. When starch is broken down into smaller molecules, it forms maltodextrin. Maltodextrin is usually made from corn, rice, or potato starch.
Maltodextrin is a white powder that is tasteless and odourless. It has a similar texture to flour and is often used as a thickener in processed foods like sauces, gravies, and soups. It’s also used as a filler in products like protein powders and meal replacement shakes. Maltodextrin can also be used as a sweetener, as it has a mild sweetness that is similar to sugar.
How is Maltodextrin Made?
Maltodextrin is made through a process called hydrolysis. Hydrolysis is a chemical process that breaks down large molecules into smaller ones by adding water. In the case of maltodextrin, starch is hydrolyzed by adding water and enzymes.
The enzymes break the starch down into smaller glucose chains, which are then further broken down into maltodextrin.
The final product is a white powder that is made up of chains of glucose molecules. The length of the chains can vary depending on the degree of hydrolysis. Shorter chains result in a sweeter taste, while longer chains result in a more neutral flavour.
Is Maltodextrin Safe to Consume?
Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies around the world. It’s considered a food ingredient and is used in a wide range of products.
However, some people may have concerns about consuming maltodextrin, as it is a processed food ingredient. Like other processed foods, it’s possible that maltodextrin may contain trace amounts of contaminants or other unwanted substances. Additionally, some people may be sensitive to maltodextrin and experience digestive issues or other symptoms after consuming it.
If you’re concerned about consuming maltodextrin, it’s a good idea to check the ingredients list on packaged foods and choose products that don’t contain it. Suppose you do consume products that contain maltodextrin and experience digestive issues or other symptoms. In that case, you may want to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it’s safe for you to consume.
What are the Uses of Maltodextrin?
As mentioned earlier, maltodextrin is used in a wide range of products as a thickener, filler, or sweetener. Here are some common uses of maltodextrin:
Thickener
Maltodextrin is often used as a thickener in processed foods like sauces, gravies, and soups. It helps to create a smooth, creamy texture and prevents the separation of ingredients.
Filler
Maltodextrin is used as a filler in many products, including protein powders and meal replacement shakes. It adds bulk to the product without adding a lot of calories or altering the flavour.
Sweetener
Maltodextrin has a mild sweetness that is similar to sugar. It’s often used as a sweetener in products like sports drinks, energy bars, and other packaged foods. It’s a popular alternative to sugar because it doesn’t have the same impact on blood sugar levels.
Other Uses
Maltodextrin is also used in other products, such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. In pharmaceuticals, it can be used as a binder to hold pills together. In cosmetics, it’s often used as a thickener or filler in creams and lotions.
Maltodextrin vs. Dextrose
Maltodextrin and dextrose are both derived from starch, but they have different properties and uses. Dextrose, also known as glucose, is a simple sugar that is often used as a sweetener. It’s commonly found in sports drinks and energy bars.
Maltodextrin, on the other hand, is a complex carbohydrate that is often used as a thickener or filler. It has a lower glycemic index than dextrose, which means it doesn’t cause blood sugar levels to spike as quickly.
Both maltodextrin and dextrose are safe to consume in moderation. However, if you have diabetes or other blood sugar issues, you should talk to your healthcare provider before consuming products that contain either of these ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Maltodextrin is a common food ingredient that is used as a thickener, filler, and sweetener. It’s derived from starch through a process called hydrolysis and is often made from corn, rice, or potato starch. While it’s generally recognized as safe, some people may be sensitive to maltodextrin and experience digestive issues or other symptoms after consuming it.
If you’re concerned about consuming maltodextrin, it’s a good idea to check the ingredients list on packaged foods and choose products that don’t contain it. Additionally, you can talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it’s safe for you to consume.
Overall, maltodextrin is a versatile food ingredient that is used in a wide range of products. While it may not be the healthiest ingredient out there, it’s generally safe to consume in moderation.
