Ingredient Information

Function

Dextrin is processed starch. Starches, or carbohydrates, consist of long molecules, which are chains of simple sugars. Dextrin is starch that has been broken into smaller segments, but not broken down all the way to sugar. Dextrin is used as a binder to hold ingredients together, for example in processed meat products like nuggets or fish sticks. It is also used as a thickener in custard or fillings to arrive at the perfect consistency, and it imparts crispiness to batters for frying. Dextrin is used for edible glazes and coatings. It prevents the crystallization of fat, keeping processed foods palatable for a long time.

Another area where dextrin is useful to food manufacturers is as a fat substitute. Because of its gluey texture, dextrin can mimic fat while contributing less calories to a product. It is also less expensive and will not spoil like fat.

Other Use and Industries

Dextrin has many applications as a binder and glue, particularly in the paper and textile industries. The cardboard for boxes is held together with dextrin. Dextrin is used to make many types of glue and adhesive, including glue and paste for children's use, as it is non-toxic if eaten. It is also used for a binder in pharmaceuticals. Dextrin is sold as a source of dietary fiber.

Health Effects

Dextrin is actually produced in our bodies as starch is digested. Dextrin can be taken as dietary fiber to improve digestion in several ways. It promotes the growth of Lactobacilli, or helpful bacteria, in the digestive tract, which reduces the population of harmful bacteria. Dextrin also cleanses the colon of toxins. Including plenty of fiber in the diet reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Origins

There are many ways to produce dextrin, but for commercial use as a food additive, dextrin is made by dry heating a starch source, such as corn, wheat, tapioca or sago, in the presence of acid to induce hydrolysis. In this process the long, chain-like molecules of starch are broken up into smaller segments comprising dextrin. Dextrin has the food number E1400. It is a creamy, white, hygroscopic sprayed powder.