Ingredient · Updated
Maltodextrin
Found in 79 productsSee all
W3LL People Bio Tint SPF 30 Tinted Moisturizer 
W3LL People Loose Superpowder Brightening Powder 
W3LL People Bio Brightener Priming Serum 
W3LL People Fresh Lines Liquid Eyeliner 
Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Company Macadamia Nuts 
HybridCR Rapid Immune Defense Four Day Cycle 
06 x Lidl 07.25 Almonds 
Kirkland Signature C 1000 mg with Rose Hips and Citrus Bioflavonoid Complex tablets What is Maltodextrin?
Maltodextrin is a white powder made from starches such as corn, rice, potato, or wheat. It is produced by hydrolyzing the starch, breaking down its components into simpler sugars. The process creates a water-soluble additive that provides quick energy and acts as a thickening agent.
This ingredient is often used in foods to improve texture and add bulk without affecting the flavor. In processed foods, it helps to extend shelf life and stabilize products. While generally considered safe, research indicates that its high glycemic index can spike blood sugar levels, which may be a concern for people with insulin resistance or diabetes.
When you encounter maltodextrin on a label, consider that it may be derived from genetically modified crops if not specified as non-GMO. This could be relevant for consumers concerned about GMOs in their diet.
Commonly found in: sports drinks, snack foods, sauces, confectioneries, processed meats, instant puddings
What to watch
- May cause spikes in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index.
- Potential for digestive issues like bloating or gas in sensitive individuals.
Maltodextrin is recognized as generally safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Studies highlight its utility in sports nutrition, while also noting potential blood sugar impacts and digestive concerns.
Maltodextrin is plant-derived and generally accepted in vegan diets.
Scout's take
Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener or filler in many processed foods. It has a high glycemic index, which can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Its use in processed foods is often criticized for contributing to poor dietary quality.
The case against
Can cause spikes in blood sugar levels and may contribute to insulin resistance.
from the analysis of BOULDER CANYON AVOCADO OIL RIDGE CUT POTATO CHIPS · echoed in 8 other analysesCan cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index.
from the analysis of Boulder Canyon Malt-Vinegar · echoed in 5 other analysesMay cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for individuals with insulin resistance or diabetes.
from the analysis of Smartfood Popcorn White Cheddar 1oz Pack of 64 Gluten Free Snack · echoed in 4 other analysesMay contribute to blood sugar spikes and is not suitable for diabetics.
from the analysis of chile lime pork rinds · echoed in 3 other analysesMay cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, potentially impacting insulin sensitivity.
from the analysis of Kroger Small Curd Cottage Cheese Low Fat · echoed in 2 other analysesThe case for
Provides texture and bulk to processed foods but offers no significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of BOULDER CANYON AVOCADO OIL RIDGE CUT POTATO CHIPS · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides a quick source of energy but lacks nutritional value.
from the analysis of Trader Joe's Springle Jangle · echoed in 1 other analysisImproves texture and acts as a filler in processed foods.
from the analysis of Pasteurized Soft Blend SULA Spread · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides a quick source of energy.
from the analysis of Nature Made B-1 Vitamin Vital Converting Boost Food Energy · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides texture and stability to the product without significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Yasso Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Frozen Greek Yogurt BarsMore from Scout's analyses
Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener and filler in processed foods. It has a high glycemic index, which can spike blood sugar levels. It offers no nutritional benefits and is often used to bulk up products cheaply.
from the analysis of Quaker Rice Cakes White Cheddar Plastic BagHighly refined starch filler with a glycemic impact above table sugar.
from the analysis of HybridCR Rapid Immune Defense Four Day CycleHighly processed starch derivative with a glycemic index higher than table sugar (GI 95-136). Used as cheap filler.
from the analysis of FitCrunch Peanut Butter Protein BarAll 79 products with Maltodextrin
+ 55 more products in the Scout app
Where Maltodextrin shows up
- Salty Snacks 20 products
- Protein Powders 7 products
- Cereal 5 products
- Deodorant 4 products
- Makeup 3 products
- Baby Snacks 3 products
Higher-scoring picks without Maltodextrin
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Maltodextrin, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.