Polydextrose

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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.

Description

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.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

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

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