Ingredient

Malt Barley Extract

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use malt barley extract primarily as a natural sweetener and flavouring agent, imparting …

What is Malt Barley Extract?

Malt barley extract is a viscous liquid derived from malted barley grains. The grains are steeped in water, germinated, and then dried. This process activates enzymes that convert starches into sugars, which are then extracted and concentrated into a syrup.

Is Malt Barley Extract vegan?

Malt Barley Extract is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Malt Barley Extract gluten-free?

Malt barley extract is derived from barley, which is a cereal containing gluten.

What is Malt Barley Extract used for?

Manufacturers use malt barley extract primarily as a natural sweetener and flavouring agent, imparting a distinct malty taste.

Is Malt Barley Extract safe?

Malt barley extract is not considered a food additive and does not have an E-number.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use malt barley extract primarily as a natural sweetener and flavouring agent, imparting a distinct malty taste. It also contributes to browning and crust development in baked goods. It is commonly found in bread, biscuits, cereals, and some confectionery.

Health notes

Malt barley extract is not considered a food additive and does not have an E-number. It is a source of carbohydrates, including sugars. The sugars present in malt barley extract contribute to the overall sugar content of foods. The UK government's Eatwell Guide advises that free sugars should not exceed 5% of total dietary energy.

Allergen info

Malt barley extract is derived from barley, which is a cereal containing gluten. Cereals containing gluten are one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

Foods that contain Malt Barley Extract

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: 17 October 2026

Note: This site presents label data from Open Food Facts for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.