Modified Starch
Also known as: E14XX, modified starches, modified food starch, modified food starches, food starch modified
FDA permits a long list of modification methods under 21 CFR 172.892, with each treatment limited to amounts 'reasonably required' for technical effect. Modified starches are widely consumed and considered safe; the main considerations are that they remain a refined carbohydrate and that 'modified' does not mean 'genetically modified'.
What it is
Starch from corn, potato, tapioca, wheat, or rice that has been physically, enzymatically, or chemically modified (E1400-E1452) to improve cooking, freeze-thaw, or texture properties.
Thickener, stabilizer, emulsifier, anti-caking agent.
Why it's flagged
- refined carbohydrate
- consumer label confusion with 'genetically modified'
- some chemical modifications use propylene oxide or sodium hypochlorite during processing
What regulators actually say
"Food starch may be modified by treatment, prescribed in this section, with the materials and subject to the limitations specified... The quantity of any substance employed to effect such modification shall not exceed the amount reasonably required to accomplish the intended physical or technical effect."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted under 21 CFR 172.892 (food starch-modified)
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as additives E1400-E1452 with no numerical ADI ('quantum satis')
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app