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The facts: Polydextrose is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Polydextrose on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Diet Snapple, Fiber One Bars, SlimFast Products.
TL;DR: Polydextrose is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Diet Snapple, Fiber One Bars, SlimFast Products, Atkins Bars, Weight Watchers Snacks |
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 Polydextrose with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Polydextrose is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Diet Snapple, Fiber One Bars, SlimFast Products, Atkins Bars, Weight Watchers Snacks. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Polydextrose.
Inulin, chicory root fiber, and psyllium husk are natural prebiotic fibers that provide similar bulk and fiber benefits. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Polydextrose or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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Audited products that don't contain Polydextrose.
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