Ingredient · Updated
Modified Corn Starch
Found in 16 productsSee all
What is Modified Corn Starch?
Modified Corn Starch is a derivative of corn starch that has been chemically altered to enhance its properties. This modification process can involve physical methods like heating or treating the starch with acid or enzymes.
It is commonly used as a thickener, stabilizer, or emulsifier in various foods. The modification helps improve its texture, stability, and shelf-life. From a health perspective, modified corn starch is considered safe for most people, but it offers little nutritional value beyond carbohydrates.
When you see it on a label, it generally indicates that the product will have a specific texture or consistency, especially in soups, sauces, and baby foods.
Commonly found in: Candy, Baby Food, Soups, Sauces, Baked Goods
What to watch
- It can contribute to excess calorie intake if consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
- Helps improve the texture and stability of food products.
Modified corn starch is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products by the FDA.
Research shows it is safe for consumption, but it offers limited nutritional benefits.
Modified corn starch is plant-derived and generally considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: Food Additive Status List
Scout's take
Chemically modified starch — ultra-processed thickener.
The case against
May cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals or those with corn allergies.
from the analysis of Lawry's GARLIC SALT COARSE GROUND WITH PARSLEY, GARLIC WITH PARSLEYThe case for
Provides texture and stability in food products but has no nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Doritos Flamas Tortilla ChipsMore from Scout's analyses
Modified corn starch is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in foods. It is derived from corn and undergoes chemical modification to improve its functional properties. While it is generally safe, it provides no significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Lawry's GARLIC SALT COARSE GROUND WITH PARSLEY, GARLIC WITH PARSLEYModified corn starch is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer in processed foods. It is chemically altered to improve its functional properties. While it is safe for consumption, it offers no significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Oreo Chex Mix Cookies & Cream Muddy BuddiesModified corn starch is used as a thickener and stabilizer in processed foods. It is derived from corn and is highly processed. It is generally recognized as safe but offers no significant nutritional benefits.
from the analysis of Doritos Flamas Tortilla ChipsAll 16 products with Modified Corn Starch
Where Modified Corn Starch shows up
- Candy 8 products
- Hydration 1 product
- Spices 1 product
- Condiments 1 product
- Baby Food 1 product
- Bagels & Muffins 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Modified Corn Starch
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Modified Corn Starch, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.