Maltodextrin- what is it – good or bad

QUESTION:

What is Maltodextrin – good or bad?

ANSWER:

Maltodextrin is a food additive a highly processed sweetener. It is a spray dried powder. It is usually derived from any starch (potato, corn, wheat) by enzymes. You may also see it labelled as modified corn starch, modified tapioca starch, modified rice starch, modified wheat starch.

It is made by cooking the starches first, then adding acids or enzymes to break it down further. A white powder is the end product that is water soluble and has neutral taste.

Manufacturers use it to improve the mouthfeel of food and drinks. It is also used to thicken products such as infants formula. You will often find it as a filler in sugar substitutes. Interestingly, it is also used as a horticultural insecticide.

I recommend avoiding this ingredient.