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Ingredient Guide

🇨🇦 Maltodextrin on Food Labels in Canada

Maltodextrin is permitted with proper declaration in Canada: declare as "maltodextrin (or wheat maltodextrin)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Maltodextrin is a neutral-tasting carbohydrate powder made from starch (corn, wheat, potato, or rice), used as a carrier, bulking agent, and texturiser. In Canada, Maltodextrin is regulated under FDR & Safe Food for Canadians Regulations as a food other. Source declaration required if from priority allergen (wheat). CFIA enforcement applies.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "maltodextrin (or wheat maltodextrin)" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "other"
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "maltodextrin (or wheat maltodextrin)"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Maltodextrin
  • Missing the functional class in the ingredient declaration
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Maltodextrin content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"other: maltodextrin (or wheat maltodextrin)"
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... maltodextrin (or wheat maltodextrin) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Modified food starch, Glucose syrup (partially)) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Maltodextrin" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Maltodextrin and all its common names (Maltodextrin, Modified food starch, Glucose syrup (partially)) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under Canada rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is maltodextrin?

Maltodextrin is a neutral-tasting carbohydrate powder made from starch (corn, wheat, potato, or rice), used as a carrier, bulking agent, and texturiser. It commonly appears in: Protein powders, Sports drinks, Powdered beverages, Instant puddings, Salad dressings.

Is maltodextrin bad for you?

Maltodextrin is GRAS/permitted everywhere and is not a safety concern, but it is a rapidly absorbed high-glycemic carbohydrate, which matters for diabetic and low-carb positioning. In the EU, wheat-based maltodextrins are explicitly exempt from allergen labeling (Annex II) because processing removes the gluten.

How must Maltodextrin be declared on food labels in Canada?

Declare as "maltodextrin (or wheat maltodextrin)" in the ingredient list. Source declaration required if from priority allergen (wheat). CFIA enforcement applies.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Maltodextrin?

Maltodextrin may appear under the following names: Maltodextrin, Modified food starch, Glucose syrup (partially). Common hidden sources include: Protein powders, Sports drinks, Powdered beverages, Instant puddings, Salad dressings, Confectionery.

Is maltodextrin banned in Canada or other markets?

Maltodextrin is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-20

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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