Ingredient · Updated October 2026

Corn Maltodextrin

Neutral in 2 Flagged in 7

Found in 9 productsSee all

Sprouts Market Honey Butter Ripples

Abbott Optigro grow & gain vanilla shake

Ensure Original Nutrition Shake Vanilla

Quaker Rice Cakes Chocolate Crunch 7.23 Ounce Plastic Bag

Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar 100% Whole Grain Snacks Plastic Bag

Quaker Protein Rice Tangy Barbecue Crisps

Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Chili & Lime Flavored

Doritos Cool Ranch

What is Corn Maltodextrin?

Corn maltodextrin is a polysaccharide that is derived from corn starch. It is created by partially hydrolyzing corn starch, which breaks the long chains of glucose molecules into smaller chains.

It is used primarily as a thickener, filler, or as a way to add bulk to processed foods and beverages without significantly impacting taste. In terms of health, evidence suggests that it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index. However, its impact on health is generally seen as less concerning than more heavily scrutinized additives.

When you see corn maltodextrin on a label, know it’s a common ingredient in packaged and processed foods. It’s approved for use in most countries and is generally recognized as safe when consumed within reasonable limits.

Commonly found in: energy drinks, protein powders, soup mixes, baked goods, confectioneries

What to watch

Corn maltodextrin can cause rapid blood sugar spikes due to its high glycemic index.
Concerns exist about its potential impact on gut health, as it may alter gut bacteria balance.

FDA

Corn maltodextrin is approved by the FDA and considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS).

Research

Research indicates that while corn maltodextrin is safe for most people, its impact on blood sugar and gut health is being studied.

Vegan

Corn maltodextrin is plant-derived, making it suitable for vegan diets.

Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS) · The Glycemic Index of Maltodextrin

Scout's take

Corn maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It has a high glycemic index, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. It is often used in processed foods due to its low cost and neutral taste.

The case against

High glycemic index may contribute to blood sugar spikes and insulin resistance.

from the analysis of Abbott Optigro grow & gain vanilla shake · echoed in 1 other analysis

May cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for diabetics.

from the analysis of Sun Chips Harvest Cheddar 100% Whole Grain Snacks Plastic Bag

May cause rapid blood sugar spikes and is often used in processed foods.

from the analysis of Quaker Rice Cakes Chocolate Crunch 7.23 Ounce Plastic Bag

May cause rapid blood sugar spikes due to its high glycemic index.

from the analysis of Doritos Cool Ranch

May cause blood sugar spikes and contribute to metabolic issues.

from the analysis of Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Chili & Lime Flavored

The case for

Provides texture and bulk to processed foods, but with no significant nutritional benefits.

from the analysis of Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Chili & Lime Flavored

Provides a quick source of energy.

from the analysis of Sprouts Market Honey Butter Ripples

More from Scout's analyses

Corn maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a filler and thickener. It has a high glycemic index, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. The processing method strips away most nutrients, leaving it with little nutritional value.

from the analysis of Abbott Optigro grow & gain vanilla shake

Corn maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler. It has a high glycemic index, which can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. It is often derived from genetically modified corn.

from the analysis of Ensure Original Nutrition Shake Vanilla

Highly processed refined carbohydrate that can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

from the analysis of Lay's Kettle Jalapeno