Tapioca Maltodextrin
Maltodextrin is FDA GRAS as a direct food ingredient under 21 CFR 184.1444 (corn, potato, or rice starch); tapioca-derived maltodextrin is also generally considered GRAS. It is rapidly digested with a high glycemic index; some emerging research suggests heavy intake may alter gut microbiota.
What it is
Maltodextrin produced from cassava (tapioca) starch by partial hydrolysis (DE typically <20).
Bulking agent, carrier, fat absorber, texture modifier; gluten-free starch derivative.
Why it's flagged
- high glycemic index
- preliminary microbiome research signals
What regulators actually say
"Maltodextrin... is a non-sweet nutritive saccharide polymer... is generally recognized as safe."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Corn/potato/rice maltodextrin GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1444; tapioca commonly considered GRAS via self-determination
European Union — EFSA
Authorized food ingredient
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