Polidekstroz

Detailed information

What it is & how it is made

A glucose-based, partially digested polymer (polydextrose). EFSA reports that it is produced by vacuum-melt condensation of a mixture of about 90 parts D-glucose, 10 parts sorbitol and 1 part citric acid (or phosphoric acid) heated under vacuum at 150-160 degrees Celsius; purification steps such as ion exchange, membrane filtration or hydrogenation may follow.

Where it is used

Used as a bulking agent, humectant, thickener and carrier. Under Annex II of EU Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 it is authorised at quantum satis in table-top sweeteners in powder and tablet form and in energy-reduced or low-alcohol beers; under Annex III it is also authorised as a carrier in food additives, food enzymes and nutrients (excluding products for infants and young children).

Health note

In its 2021 re-evaluation (EFSA Journal 2021;19(1):6363) EFSA concluded that there was no need for a numerical acceptable daily intake (ADI) for polydextrose and identified no safety concern at the reported use levels; no adverse toxicological effects were observed at doses tested up to 15,000 mg/kg body weight per day. The Panel confirmed a mean laxative threshold of 90 g per person per day or 50 g as a single dose and stated that the laxative effect should be taken into account when setting use levels, particularly when taken together with other polyols. The Panel also recommended lowering the maximum limit for lead and introducing limits for arsenic, cadmium and mercury in the EU specification.

Halal assessment

The raw materials are glucose, sorbitol and citric or phosphoric acid; no animal input is reported in the EFSA opinion. Glucose and sorbitol are generally obtained from plant starch. Consult the manufacturer's halal certificate for a definitive answer.