HealthJuly 17, 2026
maltodextrin
/ˌmæltoʊˈdɛkstrɪn/
Definition
A highly processed carbohydrate powder derived from starch, often used as a filler or sweetener in infant formula and various food products.
Etymology
The word is a chemical compound term formed by combining 'malto-' (from malt, reflecting its starch-derived nature) and 'dextrin' (a group of low-molecular-weight carbohydrates produced by the hydrolysis of starch).
In the news
Consumer Reports mentioned maltodextrin as a common ingredient in infant formula, arguing that these products should not be exempt from future ultra-processed food regulations.
FDA and USDA face three-way fight over UPF definition
Read the full article ↗FoodNavigator.com