Digestoa
Additive · Modified starch

Dextrin (E1400)

Dextrin (E1400) is a modified starch that Digestoa rates as low concern — it's considered safe at the levels used in food.

Digestoa riskLow risk
TypeModified starch
Found insauces, soups, ready meals, desserts and many processed foods
ConcernsUltra-processing marker

What is Dextrin?

Dextrin (E1400) is a modified starch — used to thicken and stabilise processed foods.

Is Dextrin bad for you?

Dextrin is permitted in food and Digestoa rates it as low concern. There's no strong evidence it causes harm at the levels typically used in food.

What foods contain Dextrin?

Sauces, soups, ready meals, desserts and many processed foods.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to avoid Dextrin. It's one of the more benign things on an ingredients list — worth knowing, not worth worrying about.

Safer swaps

Choose less-processed products with short, recognisable ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E1400 the same as Dextrin?
Yes — E1400 is the international additive (E-number) code for Dextrin.
Is Dextrin bad for you?
Digestoa rates Dextrin (E1400) as low concern. It's permitted in food and considered safe at normal dietary levels.
What are the side effects of Dextrin?
Reported concerns include: Ultra-processing marker.
What foods contain Dextrin?
Sauces, soups, ready meals, desserts and many processed foods.
How can I avoid Dextrin?
Check the ingredients list for "Dextrin" or "E1400", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related modified starch additives

Oxidised starch (E1404)Distarch phosphate (E1412)Acetylated distarch phosphate (E1414)Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate (E1442)Starch sodium octenyl succinate (E1450)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.