Polydextrose
Polydextrose is a synthetic, highly branched polymer of glucose used primarily as a soluble dietary fiber, bulking agent, and low-calorie sweetener. It is produced through the polycondensation of dextrose with sorbitol and citric acid. Polydextrose offers numerous health and functional benefits, such as improving texture, replacing sugar or fat, and supporting digestive health. It is extensively used in food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceuticals for its fiber enrichment properties and technological versatility.
Primary Uses
Food & Beverage Industry
Used as a low-calorie bulking agent in sugar-reduced and sugar-free foods.
Common in products like baked goods, cereals, nutrition bars, ice cream, yogurt, confectionery, and chewing gum.
Adds mouthfeel and body to diet and light products without added calories.
Replaces sugar, fat, or starch to improve texture and reduce energy density.
Enhances fiber content in functional food products.
Dietary Fiber Supplementation
Serves as a source of soluble fiber, improving digestive health.
Helps support regular bowel movements and improve intestinal microflora (prebiotic effect).
Supports weight management by promoting satiety and reducing caloric intake.
Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods
Incorporated into fiber-enriched supplements and meal replacement products.
Often used in medical nutrition for diabetic, cardiovascular, and weight management diets.
Beverages
Added to flavored waters, energy drinks, powdered drink mixes, and meal shakes.
Maintains clarity in clear beverages while providing body and fiber.
Bakery and Dairy Products
Used in cakes, muffins, cookies, and brownies to reduce sugar and fat content.
Applied in frozen desserts and dairy alternatives to enhance creaminess and stability.
Secondary Uses
Pharmaceutical Formulations
Used as an excipient, filler, and bulking agent in sugar-free tablets and syrups.
Improves palatability and texture of oral medicines.
Suitable for diabetic-friendly and low-glycemic formulations.
Cosmetics & Personal Care Products
Occasionally used as a humectant or viscosity modifier in toothpaste and skincare formulations.
Provides hydration and smooth feel in topical products.
Pet Nutrition
Investigated as a fiber additive in functional pet foods to support digestive health.
Biotechnology & Research
Used in laboratory settings for fiber fermentation studies and prebiotic testing.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polydextrose
Common/Trade Name: Polydextrose
CAS Number: 68424-04-4
HS Code: 3913.90.00 (Polysaccharides and derivatives)
Synonyms: Soluble fiber; Glucose polymer; Synthetic dietary fiber
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Powder or granules
Color & Odor: White to off-white; odorless
Taste: Slightly sweet or neutral
Solubility: Soluble in water
pH (10% solution): 2.5–7.0 (depending on grade)
Caloric Value: ~1 kcal/g
Molecular Weight: Variable (highly branched polymer)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
Toxicity: Non-toxic; generally recognized as safe (GRAS)
Overconsumption: May cause bloating or laxative effect in high doses
Allergen Status: Allergen-free; gluten-free; non-GMO versions available
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
Container Type: Sealed food-grade polyethylene or paper bags (typically 25kg)
Shelf Life: 24 months under proper storage
Handling Precautions: Avoid exposure to moisture; reseal containers after use
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with:
FDA GRAS status for use as a dietary fiber
EFSA-approved as a fiber additive in Europe
Codex Alimentarius food additive standards
Kosher and Halal certified (select grades)
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact
Bioaccumulation: Not expected
Allergenic Potential: Minimal to none
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Dust mask and gloves (bulk handling)
Handling Guidelines:
Minimize dust during transfer
Use only in dry processing conditions
Storage Measures: Seal properly to avoid clumping from moisture absorption
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek help if irritation occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes thoroughly with water
Ingestion (Large amounts): Mild laxative effect may occur; seek medical attention if discomfort persists
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Combustible at high temperatures
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical
Special Precautions: Avoid dust cloud ignition
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide