Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin 

 

Maltodextrin is a food ingredient based on polysaccharides and is a low-conversion product in the process of starch converting to starch sugar. It appears as an amorphous powder, white or slightly off-white in color, with no visible impurities to the naked eye. It has a characteristic odor and tastes not sweet or slightly sweet.

 

Filler

Protein powder, fruit and vegetable powder, probiotic powder, vitamin tablets, instant coffee-the pure active ingredients may only account for 10%, the rest requires a tasteless, easily soluble, non-caking, cheap substance to support the powder, encase the flavor/nutrients, and facilitate spray drying into shape.

Instant
Pure whey protein powder or pure fruit and vegetable powder will clump into rock-like masses when they meet water. Adding maltodextrin can break the electrostatic attraction between particles, allowing the powder to disperse and dissolve instantly.

Thickening
Maltodextrin is used in ice cream, yogurt, salad dressings, and instant soup powder to adjust viscosity, inhibit ice crystal growth, and prevent oil-water separation.

Quick Energy Source
Maltodextrin is used in sports drinks, energy gels, and military rations - it digests quickly, has controllable osmotic pressure, passes through the stomach quickly, and is unlikely to cause gastrointestinal discomfort during exercise.

Partial replacement of fat/sugar
Maltodextrin with a low DE value can form a gel-like texture and acts as a texture improver in low-fat ice cream, sausages, and non-dairy creamer, simulating a "rich and heavy mouthfeel".