The Core Ingredients: Modified Cornstarch and Maltodextrin
Thick-It Original thickener is composed of two primary ingredients: modified cornstarch and maltodextrin. Both are derived from corn and serve specific functions to create a stable, smooth, and predictable thickened product. Understanding each ingredient's role provides insight into why Thick-It has been a trusted brand for dysphagia management for decades.
Modified Cornstarch
The main active ingredient is modified cornstarch. This is not simply regular cornstarch found in a kitchen pantry. It is native cornstarch that has been altered through chemical, physical, or enzymatic processes to enhance its functional properties. For dysphagia thickeners like Thick-It, the modification is designed to improve several aspects:
- Enhanced Stability: Modified cornstarch is far more stable than native starch, especially when exposed to heat, acid (from foods like fruit juice), and shear stress (from stirring). This is crucial for maintaining a consistent thickness over time.
- Improved Solubility: Unlike regular cornstarch that must be cooked to thicken, modified cornstarch is pre-gelatinized during production so it can dissolve and thicken instantly in both hot and cold liquids without clumping.
- Resistance to Thinning: The modification process cross-links the starch molecules, strengthening their structure. This prevents enzymes like salivary amylase, which can be present in a person's mouth, from breaking down the starch and thinning the liquid over time.
Maltodextrin
The second component is maltodextrin, a polysaccharide often used as a food additive. Maltodextrin is a white powder made from the hydrolysis of starch, and its role is to act as a filler and stabilizer within the thickener. It is easily digestible and helps to provide a consistent bulk and texture to the powder.
Comparison: Starch-Based vs. Xanthan-Based Thickeners
Thick-It also offers other thickeners, such as the Clear Advantage line, which is made from a different primary ingredient: xanthan gum. A side-by-side comparison highlights the differences in composition and performance.
| Feature | Thick-It Original (Starch-Based) | Thick-It Clear Advantage (Xanthan-Based) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Ingredient | Modified Cornstarch | Xanthan Gum |
| Mechanism | Swelling of modified cornstarch granules in liquid | Formation of a gelling network by xanthan gum molecules |
| Consistency Stability | Thickens over a minute or so; can thin over time with saliva due to amylase | Maintains consistent viscosity and is resistant to salivary amylase |
| Clarity | Produces a slightly cloudy or opaque liquid | Creates a clear, translucent liquid |
| Taste | Flavorless, though some users report a slightly starchy taste | Flavorless, offers a cleaner taste and mouthfeel |
| Calorie/Carb Count | Higher in calories and carbohydrates | Lower in calories and carbohydrates |
| Cost | Generally a more cost-effective option | Often a more premium-priced product |
How the Ingredients Work Together
The combination of modified cornstarch and maltodextrin in Thick-It Original ensures the powder works efficiently and reliably. When added to a liquid, the modified cornstarch rapidly absorbs the fluid and swells, creating a thickened consistency. Maltodextrin assists in the even dispersion of the starch particles, preventing clumping and ensuring a smooth final texture. This process is different from native starches, which require heat to thicken and often separate upon cooling.
The Function of Thickened Liquids for Dysphagia
Thick-It thickeners are a crucial part of dysphagia management. For people with swallowing disorders, thin liquids can move too quickly, increasing the risk of aspiration—when fluid enters the lungs instead of the stomach. Aspiration can lead to serious respiratory complications like pneumonia. By thickening liquids to specific consistencies, such as nectar, honey, or pudding, Thick-It allows for safer, more controlled swallowing.
Usage and Safety
While Thick-It is widely used and generally considered safe, adherence to preparation instructions is critical. Over-thickening can create its own set of swallowing difficulties. The powder should not be consumed directly and must be properly mixed into liquids and foods before consumption to avoid the risk of asphyxiation. Thick-It Original is not recommended for infants under two, and its use with children under 12 should be under a physician's guidance.
Conclusion
In summary, the key to what Thick-It thickener is made of is a scientifically formulated blend of modified cornstarch and maltodextrin. The modification of the cornstarch allows it to thicken fluids quickly, stably, and without cooking, while maltodextrin aids in consistent texture and even dispersion. The result is a simple yet powerful tool used by healthcare professionals and caregivers to help individuals with dysphagia safely and effectively consume a wide range of hot and cold foods and beverages. This technology has significantly improved the quality of life and safety of people managing swallowing difficulties since its introduction in 1987.
Learn More About Dysphagia
For additional information on managing swallowing disorders, the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) provides globally recognized standards for thickened liquids and textured foods. Their framework is a valuable resource for caregivers and professionals. Visit IDDSI.org
