What is Thick-It powder made of? A Detailed Ingredient Breakdown

December 14, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the manufacturer, Thick-It Original powder is composed of just two primary ingredients: modified cornstarch and maltodextrin. This specialized formulation is designed to thicken beverages and food, making it a critical tool for individuals with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties.

Quick Summary

Thick-It Original powder is a food thickener made with modified cornstarch and maltodextrin. These two ingredients create a safe, controlled consistency for liquids and pureed foods, assisting individuals with swallowing disorders like dysphagia.

Key Points

Core Ingredients: Thick-It Original is primarily made of modified cornstarch and maltodextrin.
Purpose: The powder is used to safely thicken liquids and pureed foods for people with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties).
Predictable Consistency: The ingredients are modified to provide consistent and predictable thickness without altering the taste of the food or beverage.
Safe Use: It is crucial to mix the powder correctly, allow it to set for the proper time, and follow guidance from a healthcare professional.
Gastrointestinal Effects: Possible side effects include constipation and bloating if not enough other fluids are consumed; dehydration is also a risk if liquid intake decreases.
Not for Infants: Thick-It Original is not recommended for infants under the age of two.

The Primary Ingredients in Thick-It Original

Thick-It Original powder contains two main components: modified cornstarch and maltodextrin. These ingredients work together to achieve the desired thickening effect.

Modified Cornstarch

Unlike regular cornstarch, modified cornstarch undergoes alterations to enhance its properties. This modification can be chemical, physical, or enzymatic, improving stability under various conditions. Modified cornstarch in Thick-It offers:

Predictable thickening: Provides consistent thickness that remains stable over time.
Temperature stability: Functions effectively in both hot and cold liquids.
Acid resistance: Crucial for thickening acidic drinks.
Consistent consistency: Essential for safe dysphagia management.

Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin, a carbohydrate from starches like corn, is an easily digestible food additive with several roles in Thick-It. While it adds some calories and carbohydrates, its main functions include:

Enhancing thickening: Works with modified cornstarch to boost thickening and improve texture.
Acting as a filler: Adds bulk and acts as a carrier for the cornstarch, aiding in mixing and consistency.
Improving texture: Contributes to a smoother, less clumpy result when mixed.

How Thick-It Compares to Other Thickeners

Thick-It is specifically formulated for dysphagia management, distinguishing it from other thickeners. Here's a comparison:

Comparison Table: Thick-It vs. Common Thickeners


Characteristic	Thick-It Original (Modified Cornstarch/Maltodextrin)	Xanthan Gum-based (e.g., Clear Advantage)	Kitchen Starches (e.g., cornstarch)
Consistency	Predictable and consistent; doesn't continue to thicken significantly over time.	Maintains thickness well and is reliable; used for a variety of thicknesses.	Unpredictable, especially over time; can gel or become lumpy; not stable with all liquids.
Effect on Taste	Flavorless, does not alter the original taste of food or beverages.	Flavorless, does not alter taste or color of food and beverages.	Can impart a starchy or chalky flavor if not cooked properly or overused.
Mixing Time	Dissolves quickly and reaches desired consistency within minutes, but requires a brief standing time.	Hydrates quickly and maintains consistency well after mixing, with no significant waiting period.	Often requires heat to activate thickening; results are less predictable.
Stability (hot/cold)	Works consistently in both hot and cold beverages.	Highly stable across a wide range of temperatures and pH levels.	Stability is poor; can thin out with heat or become lumpy with cold.
Use Cases	Designed for safe dysphagia management in most liquids and purees.	Excellent for most liquids, including breastmilk (for certain patients), and does not add calories.	General culinary thickening (sauces, soups); not formulated for dysphagia safety.

Using Thick-It Powder Safely and Effectively

For proper and safe usage, consider these guidelines:

Measure carefully: Use the amount recommended by a clinician for the desired consistency.
Mix briskly: Stir vigorously to avoid clumps.
Allow setting time: Let the liquid stand for the recommended duration to allow full activation.
Consult a professional: Always use thickeners under healthcare supervision.

Potential Considerations

Thick-It is generally safe but can cause gastrointestinal side effects like bloating, gas, or constipation, especially without adequate fluid intake. Over-thickened liquids can also reduce fluid intake, potentially leading to dehydration. Thick-It Original is not suitable for infants under two years old.

Conclusion

What is Thick-It powder made of? Primarily modified cornstarch and maltodextrin. These ingredients create a safe and predictable thickening solution for individuals with dysphagia. Proper use, guided by understanding the ingredients, is crucial for safe consumption. Always consult a healthcare professional for appropriate thickening levels. You can find more information on the official Thick-It website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Thick-It powder is formulated to be flavorless and odorless, so it will not change the taste or appearance of the beverages or foods you thicken.

Yes, Thick-It Original is designed to thicken both hot and cold liquids and pureed foods effectively, maintaining its consistency regardless of temperature.

To mix, slowly add the measured amount of powder to the liquid while stirring briskly. After mixing, allow it to stand for a specific time (e.g., 1 minute for juice, 5-10 for milk) to reach the desired consistency.

Thick-It Original is based on modified cornstarch and maltodextrin, while Thick-It Clear Advantage uses xanthan gum. The Clear Advantage product may be suitable for different applications, including certain situations with breastmilk, but comes with specific age restrictions.

While generally safe, some individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues like constipation, bloating, or gassiness. Ensuring adequate hydration and consulting a healthcare provider is important.

Yes, Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener is gluten-free and does not contain any known allergens.

Using Thick-It powder does not cause dehydration directly, but some people may drink less fluid due to disliking the texture of thickened liquids. It's important to monitor fluid intake to prevent dehydration.