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Answer: Polydextrose 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: Diet Snapple, Fiber One Bars, SlimFast Products.
TL;DR: Polydextrose is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (food additives).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
Also called Litesse. (E1200) CAS 68424-04-4.
Other names: E1200, Litesse
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Diet Snapple, Fiber One Bars, SlimFast Products, Atkins Bars, Weight Watchers Snacks |
| CAS number | 68424-04-4 |
Polydextrose is a synthetic polymer of glucose (with some sorbitol and citric acid) created under heat and vacuum conditions. It functions as a soluble dietary fiber, providing only 1 kcal/g. It is used to add bulk to reduced-calorie foods while also contributing fiber content. The FDA approved it as GRAS in 1981.
Replaces sugar and fat in reduced-calorie foods while providing bulk, fiber, and mild prebiotic effects; commonly used in diet beverages and protein bars.
At doses above ~90 g/day, polydextrose can cause flatulence, bloating, and loose stools. At normal food use levels it is well tolerated. EFSA confirmed its safety in 2012. It functions as a soluble prebiotic fiber, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. No genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, or reproductive toxicity has been identified.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Polydextrosewith 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.
Inulin, chicory root fiber, and psyllium husk are natural prebiotic fibers that provide similar bulk and fiber benefits.
Yes, it is classified as a soluble dietary fiber in the US and EU and can be included in dietary fiber declarations on labels.
No. It is synthetically produced from glucose through a chemical polymerization process.
No. It is approved in the US, EU, and globally.
At typical food amounts it is well tolerated. Very high doses (>90 g/day) can cause flatulence and loose stools.
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