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E1400 · Carriers, Emulsifiers, Stabilisers, Thickeners

Dextrins

No known risk

Roasted starch thickener.

Category
Carriers, Emulsifiers, Stabilisers, Thickeners
Vegan
Yes
Vegetarian
Yes

What it is

Dextrins are starch that has been broken down into shorter chains by dry roasting, giving a mild thickener and glaze.

How it is used in food

Thickener.

Commonly found in
  • Coatings for baked snacks
  • Sauces and gravies
  • Confectionery glazes
  • Powdered drink mixes

Health and safety

None known.

Digested exactly like starch.

Regulatory status

RegionStatusNotes
Australia & New Zealand
FSANZ
Permitted Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code.
European Union
EFSA / European Commission
Not approved Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II).
United States
FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
Permitted Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives).

Identification on labels

E-number
E1400

Worth knowing

Starch lightly broken down by roasting — the same chemistry that browns a baguette crust.

Conclusion

There is no reason to avoid this roasted starch thickener. Made by breaking down starch chains through dry roasting, it provides a mild thickener and glaze for baked snacks and sauces. Because it is digested exactly like ordinary starch, it is completely safe.

Is it in what you are buying?

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Entry last reviewed 2026-07-28.

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