Ingredient

Sugar Maltodextrin

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use sugar maltodextrin as a bulking agent, thickener, and carrier for flavours and …

What is Sugar Maltodextrin?

Sugar maltodextrin is a carbohydrate derived from starch, typically from corn, wheat, or potatoes. It is produced by partial hydrolysis of starch, a process that breaks down the long chains of glucose into shorter ones. This results in a powder that can range from slightly sweet to nearly tasteless.

Is Sugar Maltodextrin vegan?

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

Is Sugar Maltodextrin gluten-free?

Gluten is not typically present unless derived from wheat starch and not sufficiently purified.

Is Sugar Maltodextrin a major allergen?

Sugar maltodextrin is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.

What is Sugar Maltodextrin used for?

Manufacturers use sugar maltodextrin as a bulking agent, thickener, and carrier for flavours and colours.

Is Sugar Maltodextrin safe?

Sugar maltodextrin is not considered a food additive in the UK and therefore does not have an E-number.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use sugar maltodextrin as a bulking agent, thickener, and carrier for flavours and colours. Its ability to dissolve easily and provide texture makes it common in processed foods like instant desserts, sauces, and baked goods.

Health notes

Sugar maltodextrin is not considered a food additive in the UK and therefore does not have an E-number. It is digested and absorbed like other carbohydrates, contributing to the overall sugar and calorie content of foods. While it can affect blood sugar levels, it is generally considered safe for consumption at typical dietary levels. Regulatory bodies have not set specific limits for its use, as it is viewed as a food ingredient rather than a regulated additive.

Allergen info

Sugar maltodextrin is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Gluten is not typically present unless derived from wheat starch and not sufficiently purified.

Foods that contain Sugar Maltodextrin

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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.