Modified Waxy Maize Starch
Modified food starches are permitted under 21 CFR 172.892 with specific allowed treatments and residual reagent limits. They are highly digestible carbohydrates that are not generally considered hazardous; concerns center on the use of chemical reagents and on contribution to highly processed diets.
What it is
Starch from waxy corn (high-amylopectin variety) chemically or physically modified (e.g., acetylated, hydroxypropylated, oxidized) to improve performance.
Thickener, stabilizer, texturizer; resists syneresis and freeze-thaw cycles.
Why it's flagged
- reagent residues regulated but present
- highly processed carbohydrate
- trace 3-MCPD or epichlorohydrin from some modifications
What regulators actually say
"Food starch-modified... may be safely used in food, provided that the amount used is not in excess of that required to produce the intended physical or technical effect."
"EFSA Panel concluded that there is no safety concern for modified starches at the reported uses and use levels."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted (21 CFR 172.892); each treatment listed with limits.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as E1404-E1452 with conditions in Regulation (EC) 1333/2008 Annex II.
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