Ingredient Guide

🇪🇺 Maltodextrin on Food Labels in EU

Maltodextrin is permitted with proper declaration in European Union: declare as "maltodextrin — source must be declared if from wheat" 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 European Union, Maltodextrin is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food other. Maltodextrin is generally derived from corn, wheat, potato, or tapioca. EU FIC requires declaring the source as "wheat maltodextrin" if from wheat (allergenic cereal). Non-allergenic sources declared simply as "maltodextrin". Note: highly processed wheat maltodextrin may be below threshold for gluten, but allergen declaration is still required.

What You Must Include

Declare as "maltodextrin — source must be declared if from wheat" 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 — source must be declared if from wheat"
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 — source must be declared if from wheat"

Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... maltodextrin — source must be declared if from wheat ..."

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 EU 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 EU?

Declare as "maltodextrin — source must be declared if from wheat" in the ingredient list. Maltodextrin is generally derived from corn, wheat, potato, or tapioca. EU FIC requires declaring the source as "wheat maltodextrin" if from wheat (allergenic cereal). Non-allergenic sources declared simply as "maltodextrin". Note: highly processed wheat maltodextrin may be below threshold for gluten, but allergen declaration is still required.

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 Europe 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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