Understanding Hydrolyzed Corn Starch
Hydrolyzed corn starch is a form of corn starch that has undergone a process called hydrolysis. During this process, enzymes or acids and water are used to break down the large, complex carbohydrate molecules of corn starch into smaller fragments, or simple sugars like glucose, maltose, or dextrins. This modification significantly alters the ingredient's functional properties compared to regular, unprocessed corn starch. While traditional corn starch is known for its absorbent, powder-like qualities, the hydrolyzed version becomes a water-soluble substance prized for its hydrating properties. It is often a clear, viscous liquid or fine powder used across various industries.
How the Safety of Hydrolyzed Corn Starch is Assessed
Regulatory bodies worldwide have assessed the safety of hydrolyzed corn starch for both internal and topical use. Their findings largely indicate it is safe for consumers under normal usage conditions.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel: The CIR Expert Panel, an independent body of scientists, concluded that hydrolyzed corn starch is safe for use as a cosmetic ingredient. Their report reviewed products with typical concentrations of 1% or below. The ingredient is also generally non-comedogenic.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA recognizes hydrolyzed corn starch as safe for use in Over-the-Counter (OTC) skin protectant drug products.
- European Union (EU): Hydrolyzed corn starch can be used in cosmetics and personal care products marketed within Europe according to the provisions of the Cosmetics Regulation.
Applications of Hydrolyzed Corn Starch
The modified properties of hydrolyzed corn starch make it useful in several different applications.
Hydrolyzed Corn Starch in Cosmetics and Skincare
In personal care, hydrolyzed corn starch is valued for its ability to improve product texture, act as a humectant (drawing moisture to the skin), and absorb excess oils.
- Binding Agent: It helps bind various cosmetic ingredients together, improving formula stability.
- Humectant: It helps retain moisture in a cosmetic product and on the skin.
- Viscosity Control: It can be used to increase or decrease the thickness of a cosmetic formulation.
- Skin Conditioning: It helps maintain the skin's overall condition and leaves a soft, smooth, matte finish.
- Common Products: It is found in moisturizers, serums, foundations, makeup primers, shampoos, and conditioners.
Hydrolyzed Corn Starch in Food Products
In the food industry, hydrolyzed starches are desirable for extending the technical use of starch. The specific degree of hydrolysis can be adjusted to influence sweetness, viscosity, and stability.
- Clean-Label Thickener: It functions as a thickener and stabilizer in products like soups, sauces, and dressings.
- Sweetener/Energy Source: In infant foods and nutritional drinks, it provides an energy source or sweetness. For example, a version of hydrolyzed corn starch called corn syrup solids is used in some infant formulas.
- Improved Texture: It can improve the mouthfeel and texture of food products, such as cereals and confectionery.
Hydrolyzed Corn Starch vs. Regular Corn Starch
To understand the distinct properties and safety considerations, a comparison between hydrolyzed and regular corn starch is useful:
| Feature | Hydrolyzed Corn Starch | Regular Corn Starch |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | Broken down using enzymes/acids and water (hydrolysis). | Processed from corn kernel endosperm without chemical modification. |
| Key Property | Functions as a humectant (hydrating) and viscosity controller. | Functions primarily as an absorbent powder and thickener. |
| Texture | Can be a viscous liquid or fine powder, adds smooth texture to products. | Typically a fine, dry powder. |
| Effect on Skin | Helps retain moisture, conditions skin, and absorbs excess oil. | Can be used to absorb moisture, but is primarily absorbent. |
| Digestibility | More easily digestible due to smaller carbohydrate molecules. | Provides quick fuel but is less beneficial nutritionally than whole grains. |
| Potential Allergy | Still a concern for those with corn allergies, requires caution. | Allergy risk exists for those with corn allergies. |
Potential Risks and Precautions
While hydrolyzed corn starch is widely considered safe, some considerations and precautions are still necessary.
Corn Allergies and Sensitivities
Even though hydrolyzed corn starch is heavily processed, it is still derived from corn. Individuals with a known corn allergy should be cautious, as a reaction is possible. Symptoms of a corn allergy can range from mild (itchiness, hives) to severe (anaphylaxis). It is always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using a new cosmetic product containing this ingredient, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Industrial Handling Hazards
It is important to distinguish between consumer-level and industrial-level risks. In an industrial setting, large quantities of corn starch powder can pose certain hazards, such as dust explosions or inhalation risks (pneumoconiosis). These risks are related to the handling of the raw powder in specific concentrations in an industrial setting and are not a concern for consumers using finished cosmetic or food products.
Concerns about GMOs
Most corn grown in the United States is genetically modified. If the corn used to produce the hydrolyzed starch is GMO, this may be a concern for some consumers. Products made from organic corn starch are available for those who wish to avoid GMOs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hydrolyzed corn starch is a versatile, modified, and natural corn-derived ingredient with a strong safety record in both the cosmetics and food industries. It is widely recognized as safe by regulatory bodies like the CIR Expert Panel, the FDA, and the EU. Its hydrating and texturizing properties make it beneficial for a range of products. The primary safety concern is for individuals with a pre-existing corn allergy, who should take precautions such as patch-testing cosmetic products. While raw cornstarch and industrial handling have specific safety considerations, these do not apply to the consumer use of finished products containing hydrolyzed corn starch. For most consumers, when used in finished goods, hydrolyzed corn starch is a safe and well-tolerated ingredient. For additional scientific reviews on cosmetic ingredient safety, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review website is an excellent resource, see cosmeticsinfo.org for more on corn derivatives.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional with specific concerns.
