Ingredient · Updated
Modified Food Starch
Found in 22 productsSee all
Jarrow Formulas Phosphatidylserine PS100 100 mg Dietary Supplement 
Essential Everyday LOWFAT YOGURT 
Knudsen Low Fat Cottage Cheese 
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Great Value Original Strawberry Banana 
Gatorade Zero GLACIER FREEZE ZERO SUGAR THIRST QUENCHER Joyride Sour Soda Bottle Gummy Candy 
Gatorade Gatorlyte Glacier Freeze Sports Drink - Bottle What is Modified Food Starch?
Modified food starch is derived from various sources such as corn, wheat, tapioca, or potatoes. The starch is altered physically, enzymatically, or chemically to improve its stability and performance in food products.
It is commonly used as a thickening agent, stabilizer, or emulsifier in foods like soups, sauces, and dressings. The health evidence indicates that modified food starches are generally recognized as safe by food authorities, although they can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.
When checking labels, note that the specific type of starch (corn, potato, etc.) might impact concerns like allergens or dietary restrictions, such as gluten content.
Commonly found in: Soups, Sauces, Dressings, Baked Goods, Snacks
What to watch
- May cause digestive issues in individuals with sensitivities or allergies to the source material.
The FDA considers modified food starch as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for general use in foods.
Research generally supports safety; however, some studies suggest potential digestive discomfort for those with specific starch intolerances.
Typically plant-derived, but vegan suitability can vary based on processing agents; verification recommended for strict vegans.
Sources: Food Additive Status List
Scout's take
Chemically modified starch thickener.
The case against
May cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals and contributes to empty calories.
from the analysis of Knudsen Low Fat Cottage Cheese · echoed in 1 other analysisMay cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals and contribute to blood sugar spikes.
from the analysis of Essential Everyday LOWFAT YOGURTMay cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals when consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Joyride Sour Soda Bottle Gummy CandyThe case for
Improves texture and stability in food products.
from the analysis of Herr's Cheddar & Sour Cream Ridged Potato Chips · echoed in 3 other analysesImproves texture and stability in processed foods.
from the analysis of Kraft Singles American Cheese Twin PackMore from Scout's analyses
Chemically or physically altered starch used as thickener. Ultra-processed additive.
from the analysis of Yoplait Original StrawberryPart of Creamer. Ultra-processed filler blend containing sunflower seed oil (a major red flag seed oil high in omega-6), maltodextrin (high glycemic index spike), and modified food starch. No protein benefit — purely for texture and mouthfeel.
from the analysis of Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey ProteinModified food starch is used as a thickening agent and stabilizer. It is highly processed and can contribute to the overall carbohydrate content without nutritional benefits. Its use is common in processed foods to improve texture.
from the analysis of Knudsen Low Fat Cottage CheeseAll 22 products with Modified Food Starch
Where Modified Food Starch shows up
- Hydration 5 products
- Yogurt 3 products
- Cheese 2 products
- Candy 2 products
- Brain Supplements 1 product
- Protein Powders 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Modified Food Starch
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Modified Food Starch, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.