Why We Use Maltodextrin in Certain Products

What is Maltodextrin?

Maltodextrin is a natural carbohydrate commonly derived from starch-rich foods like potatoes, rice, corn or yuca root. 

At Z Natural Foods, maltodextrin is used only when necessary, in the smallest amounts possible, to deliver a superior quality product. 

Clumping is a normal occurrence for real, whole and organic natural food powders 

We have chosen to use maltodextrin produced from organic, non-GMO yuca root (cassava root). Maltodextrin from organic yuca root is a starch that acts as 

A drying agent which helps to prevent natural food powders from clumping

The true purpose of maltodextrin is to prevent caking or clumping in the product, which if left raw, can result in a product that is nearly impossible to scoop or mix, leading to:

• product inconsistencies,
• not dissolving or blending with liquids,
• blender and machinery clogs,
• reduction in product freshness,
• taste and texture changes, and
• rapid spoilage.

In today’s food industry, many companies use drying agents, a.k.a. fillers or flow agents, in their products. And in most cases, this is unnecessary and lazy product management. 

But, oftentimes, a company will use these fillers so they can “cut” the product - which means they are adding a cheaper (or neutral) substance to dilute or extend the main ingredient. This often makes the customer think they are getting a better value than they really are.

We do not do this nor do we support unethical behavior like this at Z Natural Foods.

Now, let’s look closer at how we use maltodextrin.

5 Reasons Why We Use Maltodextrin When Necessary to Deliver You a Superior Product 

Z Natural Foods uses organic non-GMO maltodextrin in a select group of our products for the purpose intended and nothing else. 

After exhaustive and time-intensive testing to ensure quality, purity, and efficiency, we use the smallest amount possible when necessary in order to get the job done. Here are some of the reasons we use maltodextrin:

1. Smoother Blending and Consistent Quality

One primary reason maltodextrin is utilized is its exceptional ability to improve solubility and texture in powdered, natural foods. Maltodextrin helps natural food powders mix smoothly and effortlessly into liquids, eliminating clumping and creating a more enjoyable, consistent experience for our customers. 

Its neutral taste profile ensures that the natural food flavors of our nutritious products remain prominent, preserving their integrity.

2. Ensuring Freshness and Longevity

Maltodextrin acts as a natural carrier agent, protecting sensitive ingredients from moisture, oxidation, and degradation. 

This protective quality allows nutrient-dense ingredients such as extracts, vitamins, and beneficial phytonutrients to remain stable, potent, and bioavailable, maximizing their benefits and shelf life.

3. Easily Digestible Carbohydrate Energy

As a carbohydrate, maltodextrin serves as a quick and efficient energy source. It provides sustained, balanced energy without overpowering sweetness or affecting the overall taste of the products. 

Athletes and active individuals often prefer products containing maltodextrin for its ability to quickly replenish energy during or after physical activity.

4. Optimized Usage for Quality Control

At Z Natural Foods, we are mindful of ingredient selection and transparency. The maltodextrin we use is thoughtfully included in minimal, precisely controlled amounts necessary to achieve optimal performance of each product. 

We proudly offer clear labeling and comprehensive ingredient information to help our customers make informed decisions based on their individual nutritional preferences and needs.

5. Our Commitment to Superior Standards and Quality

Our maltodextrin is sourced from non-GMO, reputable suppliers who uphold the highest standards for quality and safety. This commitment aligns with Z Natural Foods' dedication to providing pure, wholesome products that meet rigorous quality standards.

In summary, maltodextrin's inclusion in select Z Natural Foods products is purposeful, transparent, and advantageous, enhancing texture, solubility, stability, and functionality without compromising purity or nutritional integrity.

For more information about our Commitment to Excellent, you are invited to visit our About Us page.

References:

• U.S. Food & Drug Administration. "Food Additive Status List." Last modified August 25, 2023. https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/food-additive-status-list.
  

• Hofman, David L., Birgit van Buul, and Fred Brouns. "Nutrition, Health, and Regulatory Aspects of Digestible Maltodextrins." Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition 56, no. 12 (2016): 2091-2100.
  

• Abbas, Syed. "Properties and Applications of Maltodextrin: A Review." Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition 50, no. 7 (2010): 591-601.
  

• Damodaran, Srinivasan, Kirk L. Parkin, and Owen R. Fennema. Fennema's Food Chemistry. 5th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 2017.
  

• International Food Information Council Foundation. "Food Ingredients & Colors." Accessed March 17, 2025. https://foodinsight.org/food-ingredients-colors/.