Where to Find Maltodextrin on the Ingredient List
Maltodextrin is a starchy white powder derived from plant starches like corn, rice, potato, or wheat. As a food additive, it is required to be listed in the ingredients section of a food product's packaging. Because it is often used as a thickener, filler, or preservative, you can typically find it listed alongside other additives in processed and packaged foods. The order in which ingredients are listed indicates the proportion present, with the first ingredient being the most abundant.
Other Names and Sources for Maltodextrin
Be aware that manufacturers may use alternative names or source maltodextrin from different plants. Look for terms such as 'Corn syrup solids', 'Modified starch' (e.g., modified corn starch, rice starch, or tapioca starch), and 'Glucose polymers'. If sourced from wheat in the U.S., it should be labeled, though this is not required in Europe.
The Difference Between Digestible and Resistant Maltodextrin
Maltodextrin exists in digestible and resistant forms, with distinct properties and labeling.
| Feature | Digestible Maltodextrin | Resistant Maltodextrin |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Bulking agent, thickener, flavor carrier, energy source | Source of dietary fiber, prebiotic effect, bulking agent |
| Labeling Name | Usually just 'Maltodextrin' or 'Corn Syrup Solids' | 'Resistant Maltodextrin', 'Resistant Dextrin', or 'Soluble Corn Fiber' |
| Glycemic Impact | Very high glycemic index (higher than table sugar) | Low glycemic impact, as it resists digestion |
| Effect on Body | Rapidly absorbed, causing blood sugar spikes | Passes largely undigested, fermented by gut bacteria |
| Nutritional Value | Provides 4 calories per gram; rapidly digestible carbohydrate | Offers functional fiber benefits; low in calories |
How Maltodextrin is Labeled on the Nutrition Facts Panel
Maltodextrin is not classified as a simple sugar like glucose or sucrose, allowing manufacturers to include it under "Total Carbohydrate" without listing it as "Added Sugars". Despite this, maltodextrin significantly impacts blood sugar levels, potentially more so than table sugar. This labeling practice means a product can have a high carbohydrate count with a low 'Sugars' figure while still containing substantial maltodextrin. Always check the ingredient list for maltodextrin, particularly when carbohydrate and sugar counts seem disproportionate.
Common Foods Containing Maltodextrin
Its functional properties, such as adding bulk, improving texture, and extending shelf life, make maltodextrin common in a wide range of processed foods. Examples include processed snacks (chips, crackers), sports nutrition products (gels, drinks, powders), condiments (dressings, sauces), instant foods (soups, puddings), artificial sweeteners (as a bulking agent), and frozen items (meals, desserts).
Navigating Labels and Making Informed Choices
Identifying maltodextrin is crucial for individuals monitoring blood sugar or seeking to limit processed ingredients. Carefully reading ingredient lists for "maltodextrin" or its aliases is essential. Opting for whole, unprocessed foods is a key strategy. When consuming packaged foods or supplements, consider products with alternative thickeners (pectin, guar gum) or sweeteners (stevia, erythritol). Research highlights the importance of understanding additives like maltodextrin, such as findings from Cleveland Clinic researchers regarding its potential impact on IBD [https://www.mdvip.com/about-mdvip/blog/read-your-food-labels-watch-out-maltodextrin].
Conclusion
Effectively identifying maltodextrin on food labels is essential for informed dietary choices due to its widespread presence in processed foods. By focusing on the ingredient list for the term "maltodextrin" or its various synonyms and understanding its inclusion in the 'Total Carbohydrate' count, consumers can better manage their intake of this additive, which can rapidly affect blood glucose levels.
