Important Facts You Need To Know About Maltodextrin Before Having Packaged Foods

 

Maltodextrin is an additive that is commonly found in packaged and processed foods. You can find it mentioned on the labels of candies, soft drinks, yogurt, sauces, chips, cereals, baked foods, spice mixes, and pastries. It is generally used in white starchy powder form that is added to these foods to boost flavor, texture, shelf-life, and thickness.

It is a plant-based substance that is highly processed and is usually prepared from corn. But some maltodextrin is also made from tapioca, potato, rice, pasta, soup, and wheat. For athletes, it is considered a good source of energy and carbohydrates in their balanced diet. However, it must be consumed in limited amounts and along with protein and fiber.

How is it made?

The food additive is a carbohydrate, yet it goes through a lot of industrial processing. It is obtained as a white powder that is created from corn, but one can also use potato starch, rice, or wheat.

At first, it is cooked, then enzymes or acids are added to it to break it down further. The finished product yielded from all these processes is a water-soluble, neutral-flavored white powder. This product is then added to packaged foods as a substitute for sugar and to enhance shelf-life, thickness, texture, and flavor.

Is maltodextrin not safe for health?

Even though it is proven safe by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), Cleveland Clinic researchers discovered that it affects gut microbes. The bacteria cling to the cellular layers that line the intestines as a result of the disruption with the regular digestion process, which is a feature of IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease).

Another source of worry is the impact the additive might have on blood sugar levels. While low in sugar, it has a glycemic index of 95 to 136. For some context, sugar has a glycemic index of 65.

The greater a food's or additive's glycemic index, the faster it passes through the digestive tract, enters the circulatory system and elevates blood sugar levels. Foods containing maltodextrin are not the ideal choice if you are attempting to control your blood sugar levels - eating too many of them might cause your blood sugar to increase.

That is why it is suggested to consume in limited quantities. But, the ingredient is beneficial for people needing blood sugar and athletes.

How it benefits athletes and professional exercisers?

Maltodextrin can be advantageous to athletes, so that's why it's found in many different kinds of athletic drinks. It allows you to rehydrate while also replenishing carbohydrate storage. Furthermore, because it is an easily digestible carbohydrate, it can aid in protein absorption and enhance muscle repair provided you ingest adequate protein prior to and after your workout.

The disadvantages of this food ingredient may overshadow the advantages, especially if you have stomach problems. This is why food makers are striving to develop substitutes for maltodextrin. But, until a substitute is available, you should consider decreasing your consumption.

Hence, it is safe to say that the quality and the amount used in packaged food are what matters. So, if you are making any recipe that would require the addition of this food additive, make sure to use a good quality. Also, ensure to use it in limited quantity. Cape Crystal Brands would be the perfect provider for you! We offer maltodextrin powder that is safely processed and is high quality. So, if you want to purchase it, visit our website (https://www.capecrystalbrands.com/). To know more about our products, you can contact us at 1-908-273-5600 or email us at info@capecrystalbrands.com.