Ingredient

Modified waxy maize starch

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use modified waxy maize starch primarily as a thickener and stabiliser in food …

What is Modified waxy maize starch?

Modified waxy maize starch is a type of starch derived from waxy maize (a variety of corn). It is chemically or physically altered to improve its functional properties, such as its stability under heat, acid, or shear. This processing allows it to perform specific functions in food products that native starches cannot.

Is Modified waxy maize starch vegan?

Modified waxy maize starch is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Modified waxy maize starch gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Modified waxy maize starch a major allergen?

Modified waxy maize starch is derived from maize, which is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Modified waxy maize starch used for?

Manufacturers use modified waxy maize starch primarily as a thickener and stabiliser in food products.

Is Modified waxy maize starch safe?

Modified waxy maize starch is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use modified waxy maize starch primarily as a thickener and stabiliser in food products. Its ability to create a smooth, creamy texture and resist breakdown makes it ideal for sauces, dressings, yoghurts, and desserts. It helps to improve the mouthfeel and shelf-life of these items.

Health notes

Modified waxy maize starch is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. European food safety authorities, including EFSA, have evaluated modified starches. These bodies have not set a numeric acceptable daily intake (ADI) for modified starches, indicating they are considered safe at typical levels of use. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at normal consumption levels.

Allergen info

Modified waxy maize starch is derived from maize, which is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Modified waxy maize starch

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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.