Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is actually a complex carbohydrate made from corn, rice or potato starch, but its molecular chain is shorter than other complex carbohydrates.
Additionally, this substance contains free glucose molecules. Like dextrose, it is absorbed directly from the intestines. Therefore, it increases blood sugar level and insulin level equally.

Maltodextrin powder in edible products can be used for:

thickening foods or liquids to help combine ingredients
Improving the texture or flavor of food
Help preserve food and extend shelf life
Replace sugar or fat while reducing calories in foods and processed foods

This food is a very easy-to-digest carbohydrate and can provide energy quickly. That’s why manufacturers add this powder to many sports drinks and snacks. Studies by researchers on inactive ingredients in supplements have shown that they are added to protein ingredients to increase food volume, improve texture, and prevent clumping, while also causing sweetness. It may also affect blood sugar levels.

How is maltodextrin made?
Maltodextrin is a white powder made from corn. Rice . Potato or wheat starch. This substance is processed from plants. To create it, starch is first cooked, then acid or organic enzymes such as alpha amylase are added with constant heat to obtain a white powder that is soluble in water and has a neutral taste. These foods are directly related to corn syrup solids but differ in sugar content, except that after hydrolysis corn syrup solids contain at least 20% sugar while maltodextrin is less than 20%.

Is maltodextrin safe?

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved maltodextrin as a safe food additive, and the nutritional value of foods is considered as a fraction of total carbohydrates. This material is generally used as a filler to increase the volume of food, as well as as a preservative to extend the lifespan of packaged food.

Maltodextrin is cheap and easy to use, so it is used in products such as instant puddings – gelatin – and sauces. In addition, this substance can be used as a sweetener in products such as canned fruits, desserts and beverages, and as a filler in care and cosmetic products such as lotions.