Is Maltodextrin Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Maltodextrin is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Also called glucose polymer. CAS 9050-36-6.
Other names: INS 1400, glucose polymer, corn maltodextrin
Is Maltodextrin banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium |
| Where it shows up | Gatorade, Quest Protein Bars, Slim Fast, Various instant soup mixes, Coffee-Mate |
| CAS number | 9050-36-6 |
What is Maltodextrin?
Maltodextrin is a polysaccharide derived by partial hydrolysis of starch — most commonly corn starch in the US, but also wheat, potato, or rice starch. It is a white powder with a mild, slightly sweet taste and is highly soluble. Despite being classified as a carbohydrate, maltodextrin has a high glycemic index (GI of 85–105), often higher than table sugar.
Why is Maltodextrin used in food?
Used as a filler, texture agent, and mild sweetener in processed foods; also serves as a carrier for flavorings and as a bulking agent in low-calorie products.
Is Maltodextrin dangerous? Documented risks
Maltodextrin's very high glycemic index (GI 85–105) means it causes rapid blood glucose spikes, potentially problematic for people with diabetes or insulin resistance. A 2012 study in PLoS ONE (Bhatt et al.) found that maltodextrin suppressed beneficial gut bacteria (like Lactobacillus) and increased Escherichia coli biofilm formation associated with Crohn's disease. A 2022 study in Nutrients noted maltodextrin's potential to disrupt gut microbiome composition at typical dietary intakes. Regulatory agencies have not restricted its use, but nutrition researchers increasingly flag it as a low-quality carbohydrate.
Common US products containing Maltodextrin
- Feta, Garlic & Herb Hummus CrispsSpecially Selected
- CINNAMON ALMOND BUTTERNature Valley
- Ice Breakers Cool MintHershey
- Mini Chewy mixed fruitSweeTARTS
- Ice breaker ice cubes peppermintIce Breakers
- Ice Breakers Wintergreen discIce Breakers
- Gushers Variety PackGeneral Mills
- Duo Fruit + Cool StrawberryIce Breakers
How to avoid Maltodextrin: safer alternatives
Tapioca starch, arrowroot powder, and whole food thickeners like potato starch or oat flour provide lower-GI alternatives.
Frequently asked questions about Maltodextrin
Is maltodextrin bad for diabetics?
Its GI of 85–105 (higher than table sugar) makes it a concern for blood sugar management in diabetics and pre-diabetics.
Is maltodextrin gluten-free?
US maltodextrin is almost always made from corn and is considered gluten-free. In the EU, wheat-derived maltodextrin must be declared as containing wheat.
Why is maltodextrin in 'healthy' protein bars?
It is used as a cheap filler, bulking agent, and quick-energy carbohydrate in sports nutrition products.
Is maltodextrin the same as sugar?
No, but it has a higher glycemic index than table sugar and behaves similarly in the body despite not being classified as a sugar on labels.
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Sources
- Maltodextrin promotes intestinal colonization by Crohn's disease-associated adherent-invasive E. coli — NCBI/PubMed
- FDA 21 CFR 184.1444 — Maltodextrin — FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.