Does Enfamil contain maltodextrin? A Comprehensive Nutrition Diet Guide

November 3, 2025 •

3 min read

According to research published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, maltodextrin is a safe and easily digestible carbohydrate for infants. However, when choosing a baby formula, many parents still question, "Does Enfamil contain maltodextrin?". The answer depends on the specific Enfamil product, as some contain this ingredient while others do not.

Quick Summary

Some Enfamil formulas contain maltodextrin as a carbohydrate source for quick energy, while many standard versions do not. The ingredient is generally found in specialized products for digestion or prematurity. Parents can check individual product labels and consult a pediatrician to determine the best option for their child's needs.

Key Points

Maltodextrin is not in all Enfamil formulas: Its presence depends entirely on the specific product, with specialty formulas more likely to contain it.
It is used for specific purposes: In formulas like Enfamil A.R. and EnfaCare, maltodextrin acts as a thickening agent or an easily digestible energy source, respectively.
Maltodextrin is not the same as corn syrup: While both are derived from cornstarch, maltodextrin is less sweet and is valued for its quick-digesting properties.
Some formulas use corn syrup solids instead: Products like Enfamil Gentlease use corn syrup solids as the main carbohydrate source, not maltodextrin.
Always check the ingredients list: The most reliable way to determine if a specific Enfamil product contains maltodextrin is to read the ingredient label on the packaging.
Consult a pediatrician for guidance: For any questions about whether maltodextrin is appropriate for your baby's diet, discuss your concerns with a medical professional.

Understanding Maltodextrin in Baby Formula

Maltodextrin is a carbohydrate made from starches like corn, rice, or potatoes. It's used in baby formula to provide easily digestible energy for infants, offer a balanced taste, and help with thickening and stabilization.

Which Enfamil Formulas Use Maltodextrin?

Not all Enfamil formulas contain maltodextrin. It is more commonly found in formulas designed for specific needs, such as premature infants or those with digestive issues.

Examples of Enfamil formulas that include maltodextrin are:

Enfamil A.R.™: This formula contains maltodextrin along with rice starch as a thickener to help reduce spit-up.
Enfamil NeuroPro™ EnfaCare™: Designed for premature babies, this formula includes maltodextrin for an easily absorbed energy source.
Some international versions: Depending on local regulations, certain formulas sold outside the U.S. may contain maltodextrin.

Which Enfamil Formulas Are Maltodextrin-Free?

Many standard Enfamil formulas intended for healthy, full-term infants do not contain maltodextrin, typically using lactose as the main carbohydrate.

Enfamil NeuroPro™ Infant: This formula uses lactose as its carbohydrate source and does not list maltodextrin in its U.S. ingredients.
Enfamil Enspire™: This formula, which includes lactoferrin and MFGM, uses lactose as its primary carbohydrate and is maltodextrin-free.

The Role and Concerns Surrounding Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is considered safe by regulatory bodies like the FDA. However, some parents have questions about its use.

Why Maltodextrin is Used in Certain Formulas

Easily Digestible Carbohydrate: It provides a simple carbohydrate that is quickly absorbed, beneficial for infants with developing digestive systems or lactose sensitivity.
Thickening Agent: In formulas for reflux, it helps thicken the formula.
Energy Source: It offers a rapid energy source, important for premature infants needing higher calorie intake.

Potential Concerns for Some Infants

High Glycemic Index: Maltodextrin can cause a quick rise in blood sugar. Some parents prefer a slower energy release from carbohydrates like lactose.
Processed Ingredient: It is a processed additive, which some families wish to avoid in their baby's diet.
Digestive Issues: While generally easily digestible, a small number of sensitive infants might experience gas or bloating.

Making the Best Choice for Your Baby

Always consult your pediatrician when choosing a baby formula. They can assess your baby's needs and recommend the most suitable formula. For most healthy babies, formulas with lactose are standard. If your baby has specific needs, a doctor might suggest a formula with maltodextrin. Always read the ingredient list on the product label. For organic, maltodextrin-free options, some European brands are available but require careful sourcing.

Comparison Table: Enfamil Formulas and Maltodextrin


Feature	Enfamil NeuroPro™ Infant	Enfamil NeuroPro™ EnfaCare™	Enfamil A.R.™ Powder	Enfamil Gentlease™ Powder
Maltodextrin?	No	Yes	Yes	No, contains Corn Syrup Solids
Primary Carbohydrate	Lactose	Lactose and Maltodextrin	Lactose and Maltodextrin	Corn Syrup Solids
Designed For	Healthy, full-term infants	Premature or low-birth-weight infants	Reducing frequent spit-up	Fussiness, gas, and crying
Key Benefit	Closest to breast milk with DHA and MFGM components	Provides higher calories for preemies	Added rice starch to thicken formula	Partially broken-down proteins for easy digestion

Conclusion

Does Enfamil contain maltodextrin? Yes, but only in certain formulas for specific dietary needs, like those for preemies or reducing spit-up. Many standard Enfamil products, such as Enfamil NeuroPro Infant, use lactose and are maltodextrin-free. While maltodextrin is generally safe, discuss your baby's nutritional needs and formula options with a pediatrician. Reading product labels is essential for informed decisions about your baby's diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Maltodextrin is an easily digestible carbohydrate derived from starches like corn, rice, or potato. It is added to some baby formulas, particularly specialty ones, to provide a quick source of energy, thicken the consistency, or serve as an alternative carbohydrate for infants with lactose sensitivities.

Formulas like Enfamil A.R. for spit-up and Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare for premature infants contain maltodextrin. Ingredients can vary by region and formula type, so always check the specific product label.

Yes, many standard Enfamil formulas, such as Enfamil NeuroPro Infant, do not contain maltodextrin. These products primarily use lactose, the natural sugar found in breast milk, as their carbohydrate source.

Maltodextrin is widely considered safe for infant consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA. However, some parents may prefer formulas without it due to its processed nature or high glycemic index, though the amount in formula is generally low.

While both are derived from cornstarch, maltodextrin is less sweet than corn syrup solids. Maltodextrin consists of shorter glucose chains and is primarily used for texture and rapid energy, whereas corn syrup solids can also contribute a sweet flavor and are used in some lactose-free formulas.

Lactose is the main carbohydrate in breast milk and is considered the gold standard for infant formula. It provides a key source of energy and aids in the absorption of certain minerals. However, in cases of lactose sensitivity, alternative carbohydrate sources like maltodextrin or corn syrup solids are used.

The most straightforward method is to read the ingredients list on the packaging. For standard feeding, Enfamil NeuroPro Infant is a maltodextrin-free option. If your baby has specific digestive issues, consult your pediatrician to discuss the best alternative formula.