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Answer: Dextrose is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US food. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: Nature Valley Granola Bars, Gatorade, Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs.
TL;DR: Dextrose is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called glucose. CAS 50-99-7.
Other names: glucose, corn sugar, D-glucose, grape sugar
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Nature Valley Granola Bars, Gatorade, Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs, Subway Bread, Heinz Ketchup |
| CAS number | 50-99-7 |
Dextrose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) derived from corn starch hydrolysis. It is chemically identical to glucose and is the primary energy source for human cells. In food manufacturing, dextrose is used as a sweetener, fermentation substrate, and browning agent. It has a glycemic index of approximately 100.
Used as a sweetener, humectant, and fermentation aid in bread, sausages, sports drinks, and confectionery; also accelerates browning via Maillard reactions.
Dextrose has a GI of 100 (the standard reference), causing rapid blood glucose elevation. Excessive consumption contributes to caloric overload, dental caries, and metabolic syndrome risk. However, as a single ingredient it is no more concerning than other simple sugars. The health risks of dextrose are those of added sugar generally, which the American Heart Association and WHO link to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease when consumed in excess.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Dextrosewith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Coconut sugar, dates, or whole fruit provide sweetness with lower glycemic impact and additional fiber.
Dextrose (glucose) is a simple sugar with a GI of 100, while table sugar (sucrose) is a disaccharide with a GI of about 65. Both are added sugars.
In the US, dextrose is almost always derived from corn starch, often from GMO corn.
No. Dextrose is a naturally occurring sugar approved universally.
It feeds fermentation bacteria, acts as a humectant to retain moisture, and promotes browning in cured meats.
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