Maltodextrin
LimitA highly processed carbohydrate used as a filler and thickener with a high glycemic index.
Goby Ingredient ScoreModerate
43/100
Our rating
Limit
Generally permitted, but worth moderating in your overall diet. How we rate ingredients
What is it?
Maltodextrin is a white powder made from corn, rice or wheat starch. It is used as a thickener, filler or preservative and digests very quickly.
Is Maltodextrin safe?
Generally recognized as safe but it has a higher glycemic index than table sugar, so it can spike blood sugar quickly.
Commonly Found In
- Sports drinks
- Sugar-free products
- Snacks
- Powdered foods
- Protein powders
Key Concerns
- !Very high glycemic index
- !May affect gut bacteria
- !Common in ultra-processed foods
Related Ingredients
- SucraloseA zero-calorie artificial sweetener around 600x sweeter than sugar, stable for baking.
- Xanthan GumA plant-based thickener and stabilizer produced by fermentation, safe in normal amounts.
- Monosodium GlutamateA flavor enhancer that adds savory umami taste, common in processed and restaurant foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does maltodextrin spike blood sugar?
Yes, it has a higher glycemic index than sugar and can raise blood glucose rapidly.