Maltodextrin
maltodextrin, maltodextrina, maltodextrine, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate
What it is
An ultra-processed carbohydrate powder made from the partial breakdown of starches.
Why BOTIA flags it
BOTIA flags it because it is a rapidly digestible carbohydrate that behaves like sugar once digested, while not being classified as a free sugar under WHO criteria. It frequently appears in products that avoid the word sugar on the label.
BOTIA CAN
- Detect maltodextrin and classify the food as ultra-processed (NOVA 4).
- Flag its presence as a rapidly digestible carbohydrate, distinct from WHO free sugars.
BOTIA CANNOT
- Determine the botanical starch source (e.g., corn, wheat, or tapioca) unless explicitly declared.
- Ascertain the glycemic index or the molecular chain length of the specific maltodextrin used.