Tag: Cyclodextrin

According to a 2016 study published in *Science Translational Medicine*, cyclodextrin treatment reduced atherosclerotic plaque size in mice, highlighting its potential to address cholesterol accumulation. This has led many to question: does cyclodextrin lower cholesterol levels in humans, and if so, how effective is it?

Over 100 years have passed since the first discovery of cyclodextrin, which originates naturally from the bacterial breakdown of starch. This family of cyclic oligosaccharides is not found in foods, but is biosynthesized by specific microorganisms and can be prepared using starches from common crops like corn and potatoes.

Did you know that cyclodextrins were originally discovered over a century ago as a product of starch fermentation by bacteria? These unique cyclic oligosaccharides are not typically found in raw, natural foods but are intentionally added to a wide array of processed products to enhance their qualities.

Cyclodextrins are a family of water-soluble, cyclic oligosaccharides that have been used as food additives for decades. They are industrially produced from starch by enzymatic conversion and are generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by food regulatory bodies like the FDA and European Food Safety Authority. Cyclodextrins are intentionally added to a wide range of processed foods and beverages to perform various functions, including encapsulating flavor compounds and masking off-tastes.