{"id":96,"date":"2023-07-26T17:23:41","date_gmt":"2023-07-26T22:23:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/?p=96"},"modified":"2023-07-31T11:57:55","modified_gmt":"2023-07-31T16:57:55","slug":"maltodextrin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/maltodextrin\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Maltodextrin? Uncovering the Facts and Uses"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Maltodextrin is a versatile food additive commonly found in a wide range of products, and it may leave many consumers wondering about its origins, safety, and potential health implications. This white powder, derived from starchy sources such as corn, rice, potato, or wheat, undergoes significant processing to create a tasteless, highly-soluble ingredient. Producers cook the starches, followed by enzymatic or acid treatment, to break down the complex carbohydrates, ultimately creating maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The versatility of maltodextrin is thanks to its unique properties. From improving texture and extending shelf life to enhancing flavor and acting as a filler, maltodextrin is useful in various food and beverage applications. Despite its plant-based origins, some concerns have arisen regarding its potential health impact, and it&rsquo;s crucial to understand and weigh the pros and cons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key Takeaways<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Maltodextrin is a processed food additive derived from starchy plant sources like corn, rice, potato, or wheat.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This versatile ingredient is used to improve the texture, flavor, and shelf life of a variety of food products.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Potential health concerns exist, making it necessary to understand its health impacts and possible alternatives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"512\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-286\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin.png 512w, https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"512\" height=\"512\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20512%20512'%3E%3Crect%20width='512'%20height='512'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-286 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin.png\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin.png.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin.png.webp 512w, https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin-300x300.png.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Maltodextrin-150x150.png.webp 150w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is Maltodextrin<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a white powder made from plant-based starches, such as corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It is a type of carbohydrate classified as a polysaccharide, with commercial products containing an average of around 3 to 17 glucose units per chain. The process of making maltodextrin involves cooking the starches, then adding enzymes to break them down further. This results in a highly processed ingredient that is often used in various food and beverage applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the food industry, maltodextrin serves many purposes due to its versatile properties. It is commonly added to packaged foods to improve their flavor, thickness, and shelf life. Its relatively tasteless profile allows it to be used effectively as a thickener or stabilizer without altering the intended taste of the product. Some of the common food items containing maltodextrin include canned fruits, instant puddings, and sports drinks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While it may be derived from plants, it is essential to understand that maltodextrin is a highly processed ingredient. This means it might not possess the same nutritional benefits as its unprocessed counterparts. However, maltodextrin is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts, as it has been approved for use by various regulatory authorities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In summary, maltodextrin is a versatile carbohydrate used in many food and beverage applications for its thickening, stabilizing, and sweetening properties. It is a white powder derived from plant-based starches and is highly processed to achieve its final form. Although considered safe, it is essential to remain aware of its presence in processed foods and monitor intake accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ingredients and Sources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a white powder made from starchy foods, commonly derived from grains and tubers. It undergoes an intense processing method to create a product that is widely used in the food industry as a thickening agent, filler, and preservative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common Sources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Corn<\/strong>: One of the most common sources of maltodextrin is corn. The starch in corn is extracted and cooked, then broken down into smaller, easily digestible carbohydrates, resulting in maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Wheat<\/strong>: Similar to corn, wheat is also a popular source for maltodextrin extraction. The starch from wheat is cooked and broken down to form maltodextrin, which is then used in various food products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Potato<\/strong>: Maltodextrin can also be sourced from potato starch. The process is quite similar to that of corn and wheat, wherein potato starch is cooked and broken down into maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Rice<\/strong>: Another common source of maltodextrin is rice. The starch from rice is cooked, broken down, and then transformed into maltodextrin, just like other sources mentioned above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tapioca<\/strong>: Although less common, maltodextrin can be derived from tapioca as well. The process is similar to that of other sources, where tapioca starch is cooked and broken down to create maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Throughout its manufacturing process, maltodextrin is transformed from its natural state into a highly processed powder. Despite being derived from various starchy foods, the final product is considered neutral and versatile, making it a popular ingredient in a wide range of food products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Production Process<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hydrolysis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin production starts with the heating and gelatinizing a food-grade starch, most commonly corn starch in the United States or wheat starch in Europe. The process of hydrolysis is then applied to the starch, which uses water, enzymes, and acids to break it into smaller pieces, resulting in a white powder. The hydrolysis step is crucial, as it helps to control the size of maltodextrin molecules and their properties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Enzymatic Conversion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the enzymatic conversion stage, the starch paste is first treated with acid and\/or an alpha-amylase at temperatures between 95-105&deg;C for liquefaction. Afterward, the mixture is cooled to 90-102&deg;C, and the addition of a second enzyme takes place. This multiple enzyme treatment approach allows for the production of maltodextrin with specific properties and controlled molecular sizes. Throughout the process, it is essential to monitor the conditions and enzymatic activity to ensure the desired outcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, the production of maltodextrin involves a carefully monitored process of hydrolysis and enzymatic conversion. With proper control and selection of enzymes, maltodextrin can be produced with specific properties and sizes tailored to various applications in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Properties and Functionality<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Texture and Taste<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a starchy powder derived from plants such as corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It can range from being moderately sweet to almost flavorless, depending on the degree of polymerization. As a result, it serves as a useful ingredient in a variety of processed foods to enhance their flavor and texture. Moreover, maltodextrin acts as a thickener, providing a smooth and consistent texture to products like sauces, soups, and condiments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Solubility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the key characteristics of maltodextrin is its high solubility. When dissolved in water, it forms a clear and colorless solution. Its solubility not only increases the ease of mixing with other ingredients, but also makes it an excellent carrier for flavors and colors in food products. This helps in the manufacturing, storage, and distribution processes of a wide range of food and beverage items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shelf Life and Stability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin contributes to the improvement of shelf life and stability in many food products. Its ability to act as a stabilizer helps in maintaining the homogeneity of the product, preventing issues such as separation, clumping, or crystallization. Moreover, maltodextrin helps in preserving the desired texture and taste of the product over time, ensuring that consumers enjoy a consistent food experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Applications in Food Products<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Food Additives<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is commonly used as a food additive in various products due to its versatile properties. As a white powder made from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat, it is an excellent thickener, filler, and preservative. This makes maltodextrin a popular choice for enhancing the texture and extending the shelf life of many processed foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Baked Goods and Desserts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the world of baked goods and desserts, maltodextrin plays a vital role. It helps in improving the mouthfeel and overall texture of products, such as cookies, cakes, and pastries. In addition, maltodextrin acts as a stabilizer in frozen desserts like ice cream, preventing the formation of ice crystals and ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cereals and Energy Drinks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is often found in cereals and energy drinks, as it provides a quick source of energy and helps improve the product&rsquo;s taste. In cereals, maltodextrin acts as a binder, helping to maintain the shape and structure of cereal flakes and puffs. Meanwhile, energy drinks use maltodextrin as a carbohydrate source, providing an energy boost and enhancing the drink&rsquo;s overall flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Salad Dressings and Soups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In salad dressings and soups, maltodextrin serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it functions as a thickening agent, providing a more desirable consistency to the product. Secondly, maltodextrin helps to maintain the stability of emulsions, preventing separation of oil and water in salad dressings. Furthermore, its neutral taste ensures that it doesn&rsquo;t interfere with the flavor profile of these products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Health Impact and Considerations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Glycemic Index and Blood Sugar Levels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index (GI), meaning it can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels when consumed. This is because it&rsquo;s a quickly absorbed carbohydrate, providing a rapid source of energy. For individuals with diabetes or those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels, it&rsquo;s important to be aware of maltodextrin&rsquo;s potential impact and consume it in moderation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Calories and Weight Gain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a source of calories, with approximately 4 calories per gram. It may contribute to weight gain if consumed in large quantities or as part of a high-calorie diet. However, being mindful of portion sizes and overall calorie intake can help minimize the risk of weight gain associated with maltodextrin consumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gluten and Celiac Disease<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin can be made from various sources, including wheat. Although the processing typically removes gluten, there may still be trace amounts present in some maltodextrin products derived from wheat. For individuals with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, it&rsquo;s important to verify if the maltodextrin is gluten-free before consuming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Diabetes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As mentioned earlier, maltodextrin has a high GI, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. For people with diabetes, it&rsquo;s crucial to monitor the consumption of maltodextrin in their diet. Over time, consistently high blood sugar levels can lead to insulin resistance and complications related to diabetes. Awareness and moderation are key when considering maltodextrin for individuals with diabetes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Allergies and Intolerances<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While maltodextrin allergies are rare, some people may experience an allergic reaction or intolerance to the substance. Symptoms can include hives, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and gas. If you suspect a maltodextrin allergy or intolerance, consult a healthcare professional for guidance and potentially avoiding products containing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Safety and Regulations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a plant-based white powder made from sources like corn, potato, rice, wheat, or tapioca. Its main purpose in food products is to serve as a filler, preservative, or thickener, which helps improve their flavor and texture. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified maltodextrin as generally recognized as safe (GRAS), allowing for its widespread use in various food and beverage products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The process of making maltodextrin involves cooking the starches, followed by enzymatic breakdown and purification. Although it is derived from plants, maltodextrin is considered highly processed. It is essential to ensure that the manufacturing process adheres to safety guidelines and regulations to maintain the quality and safety of the final product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While maltodextrin is widely used and recognized as safe by the FDA, it is still crucial for consumers to be aware of any potential health impacts. For some people, consuming maltodextrin may cause undesirable health effects, such as bloating, gas, or other digestive issues. Therefore, it&rsquo;s essential for individuals with specific dietary concerns or sensitivities to check food labels for maltodextrin content and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, maltodextrin is a versatile food additive that is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. However, consumers should be aware of its presence in various food and beverage products and monitor their intake accordingly, especially if they have dietary restrictions or sensitivities. By adhering to safety regulations and guidelines in the production process, the industry can ensure the ongoing safety and widespread use of maltodextrin in food products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternatives and Substitutes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Natural Sweeteners<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When looking to replace maltodextrin, there are several natural sweeteners that can be used as healthier alternatives. One popular option is <strong>stevia<\/strong>, a plant-derived sweetener with zero calories and a glycemic index of zero. It can be used in a variety of applications, such as baking and beverages. Another option is <strong>dextrose<\/strong>, a natural sugar derived from corn, which can also be used as a sweetening agent in several recipes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thickeners<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin acts as a thickener in many food products, but there are healthier alternatives available. <strong>Pectin<\/strong> is a natural thickener derived from fruit, commonly used in jams and jellies. Pectin can be incorporated into various recipes to achieve the desired texture. Another option for a thickening agent is <strong>guar gum<\/strong>, which is obtained from the seeds of the guar plant. It can be used in various cooking applications, from thickening soups and sauces to stabilizing ice cream and other frozen desserts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fiber Supplements<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is also used in some fiber supplements. A healthier alternative to maltodextrin in this application is <strong>Fibersol-2<\/strong>. It&rsquo;s a soluble dietary fiber derived from corn, which can be added to different food and beverage products to increase their fiber content. This alternative has numerous potential health benefits, such as improving gut health and supporting weight management, making it a more attractive choice compared to maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, there are several healthier alternatives and substitutes for maltodextrin on the market. By opting for natural sweeteners, thickeners, and fiber supplements, you can enjoy the benefits of these ingredients without the potential downsides associated with maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a white, starchy powder derived from plant sources such as corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It is created through a highly processed method involving cooking the starches, then adding enzymes or acids to break the molecules into smaller pieces. As a result, maltodextrin consists of short chains of sugars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This versatile additive is commonly found in packaged foods for various purposes such as improving flavor, thickness, and shelf life. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) generally recognizes maltodextrin as safe, and it is widely used as a filler, preservative, or thickener in a wide range of food products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While maltodextrin can offer some benefits, particularly as a quick energy source for athletes, it&rsquo;s essential to be cautious of overconsumption. Excessive intake may lead to potential health issues such as blood sugar imbalances and gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In summary, understanding what maltodextrin is and how it affects the body can help consumers make more informed choices about the products they consume. Moderation and awareness are keys to a balanced diet, especially when it comes to highly processed and widespread ingredients like maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is maltodextrin harmful for your liver?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe by the FDA and is widely used as a filler, preservative, or thickener in foods and beverages. However, consuming large amounts of maltodextrin may negatively impact blood sugar levels in some people. Individuals with liver issues should consult their healthcare professional before consuming large amounts of maltodextrin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the common sources of maltodextrin?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin is a white powder made from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It is commonly found in processed foods such as packaged snacks, cereals, sports drinks, and as a thickener in sauces and dressings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does maltodextrin&rsquo;s glycemic index compare to sugar?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index, meaning it can rapidly increase blood sugar levels. Its glycemic index ranges from 85 to 105, which is higher than table sugar&rsquo;s glycemic index of around 65.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What can be used as an alternative to maltodextrin?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several alternatives to maltodextrin, depending on the desired application. Some common options include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Inulin: a natural fiber derived from chicory root, often used as a prebiotic and for improving gut health<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dextrose: a simple sugar derived from corn, used as a sweetener in foods and beverages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stevia: a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, used for its minimal impact on blood sugar levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arrowroot powder: a natural thickener derived from the arrowroot plant, used in sauces and baked goods<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the role of maltodextrin in food?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin serves various purposes in food applications. Manufacturers add maltodextrin to improve food texture and thickness, enhance flavors, and extend shelf life. It also acts as a binding agent, stabilizer, and carrier for other food ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners or colors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does maltodextrin have a similar effect on health as sugar?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Maltodextrin shares a few similarities with sugar, particularly in terms of its impact on blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index. Excessive consumption of both maltodextrin and sugar can lead to undesirable health effects, such as weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, maltodextrin itself is not as sweet as sugar and is mainly used for its functional properties in food products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"display: none;\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is maltodextrin harmful for your liver?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\n<p>Maltodextrin is generally recognized as safe by the FDA and is widely used as a filler, preservative, or thickener in foods and beverages. However, consuming large amounts of maltodextrin may negatively impact blood sugar levels in some people. Individuals with liver issues should consult their healthcare professional before consuming large amounts of maltodextrin.\n<p>\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What are the common sources of maltodextrin?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\n<p>Maltodextrin is a white powder made from corn, rice, potato starch, or wheat. It is commonly found in processed foods such as packaged snacks, cereals, sports drinks, and as a thickener in sauces and dressings.\n<p>\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does maltodextrin's glycemic index compare to sugar?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\n<p>Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index, meaning it can rapidly increase blood sugar levels. Its glycemic index ranges from 85 to 105, which is higher than table sugar's glycemic index of around 65.\n<p>\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What can be used as an alternative to maltodextrin?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\n<p>There are several alternatives to maltodextrin, depending on the desired application. Some common options include:\n<p>\\n\n<ul>\\n\n<li>Inulin: a natural fiber derived from chicory root, often used as a prebiotic and for improving gut health\n<p>\\n\n<li>Dextrose: a simple sugar derived from corn, used as a sweetener in foods and beverages\n<p>\\n\n<li>Stevia: a natural sweetener extracted from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, used for its minimal impact on blood sugar levels\n<p>\\n\n<li>Arrowroot powder: a natural thickener derived from the arrowroot plant, used in sauces and baked goods\n<p>\\n\n<p>\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What is the role of maltodextrin in food?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\n<p>Maltodextrin serves various purposes in food applications. Manufacturers add maltodextrin to improve food texture and thickness, enhance flavors, and extend shelf life. It also acts as a binding agent, stabilizer, and carrier for other food ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners or colors.\n<p>\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does maltodextrin have a similar effect on health as sugar?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"\n<p>Maltodextrin shares a few similarities with sugar, particularly in terms of its impact on blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index. Excessive consumption of both maltodextrin and sugar can lead to undesirable health effects, such as weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, maltodextrin itself is not as sweet as sugar and is mainly used for its functional properties in food products.\n<p>\"}}]}<\/script><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Maltodextrin is a versatile food additive commonly found in a wide range of products, and it may leave many consumers wondering about its origins, safety, &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=96"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":287,"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96\/revisions\/287"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=96"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=96"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sugar-and-sweetener-guide.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=96"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}