What are Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysates (HSH)?
Hydrogenated starch, also known as Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate (HSH), is a family of sugar alcohols (polyols) that includes ingredients like maltitol syrups and sorbitol syrups. It is not a single compound but a mixture of different hydrogenated mono-, di-, oligo-, and polysaccharides. The exact composition can vary depending on the manufacturing process and the starch source used, which can include corn, potatoes, or wheat. The hydrogenation process converts the saccharides into their corresponding sugar alcohols, which provides a range of benefits over traditional sugar.
How are Hydrogenated Starches Made?
The production of hydrogenated starch is a two-step process that starts with a natural starch.
- Partial Hydrolysis: The process begins with the partial breakdown of starch, using enzymes, acids, or heat. This hydrolysis breaks down the long starch chains into smaller carbohydrate fragments, known as dextrins or glucose syrups. The extent of this hydrolysis step can be controlled to produce a specific mix of saccharides.
- Hydrogenation: The resulting starch hydrolysate is then subjected to a high-pressure hydrogenation process in the presence of a catalyst. This adds hydrogen atoms to the molecules, converting the aldehyde groups of the saccharides into hydroxyl groups, thus creating the sugar alcohols, or polyols. The final product is a mixture of various polyols, such as sorbitol, maltitol, and other higher-order hydrogenated saccharides.
Uses and Functional Benefits
Hydrogenated starch hydrolysates are valued in the food and personal care industries for their multifunctional properties.
- Food Industry Applications: As bulk sweeteners, they are used in sugar-free and reduced-calorie products like candies, chewing gums, baked goods, and frozen desserts. Their ability to not crystallize makes them ideal for confectionery products. They also act as bodying agents, humectants (moisture retainers), and crystallization modifiers.
- Cosmetic and Personal Care: HSH is an excellent humectant, meaning it helps skin and hair retain moisture. This property makes it a common ingredient in moisturizers, serums, masks, and hair conditioners. It also functions as an emulsifier, helping different ingredients blend smoothly, and provides a pleasant, soft texture to products.
- Pharmaceuticals: HSH can be used as a palatable vehicle or carrier for delivering active compounds in syrups, lozenges, and supplements.
Comparison: Hydrogenated Starch vs. Sucrose
| Feature | Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysates (HSH) | Sucrose (Table Sugar) |
|---|---|---|
| Caloric Value | Up to 3 calories per gram in the US; 2.4 in the EU. | 4 calories per gram. |
| Sweetness | 40% to 90% as sweet as sugar. | 100% (reference standard). |
| Dental Health | Non-cariogenic; not readily fermented by oral bacteria, so it does not contribute to tooth decay. | Cariogenic; readily fermented by oral bacteria, which produces acids that cause tooth decay. |
| Glycemic Impact | Low glycemic potential due to slower absorption. | High glycemic impact, causing rapid spikes in blood sugar. |
| Digestive Effect | Can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, gas, or a laxative effect in large quantities. | Generally well-tolerated, but can contribute to blood sugar issues. |
| Functionality | Adds bulk, texture, and moisture control; inhibits crystallization. | Provides sweetness and bulk, but can promote crystallization. |
Potential Health Considerations
While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), HSH consumption has some important health considerations. The primary concern is related to its digestive effects. Because HSH is not fully absorbed by the body and is slowly fermented by intestinal bacteria, excessive intake can lead to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This is a common effect shared by most polyols, and individuals' tolerance levels can vary.
Despite this, HSH is considered a beneficial alternative for people managing their blood sugar, as it has a reduced glycemic potential compared to sugar. It is also non-cariogenic, meaning it does not promote tooth decay, which is a major benefit for dental health. These advantages make HSH a useful tool for formulating sugar-free and reduced-calorie products. However, individuals with diabetes should still consult with a physician to determine how best to incorporate HSH into their diet.
Conclusion
In summary, a hydrogenated starch, or HSH, is a versatile and valuable ingredient in modern industry, functioning primarily as a low-calorie bulk sweetener and a humectant. Produced through the partial hydrolysis and hydrogenation of natural starches, it offers a functional alternative to sugar with notable benefits for dental and glycemic health. While it is a useful tool for creating reduced-calorie and sugar-free products in both the food and cosmetic sectors, potential digestive side effects mean that mindful consumption is key. The continued use of HSH in a wide array of products demonstrates its importance in providing functional, health-conscious options to consumers worldwide.
For more information on sugar alcohols and their uses, visit the Calorie Control Council website(https://caloriecontrol.org/hydrogenated-starch-hydrolysates/).
