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Ingredient Guide

🇺🇸 Modified Starch on Food Labels in US

Modified Starch is permitted with proper declaration in United States: declare as "modified food starch" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Chemically or physically treated starch used as a thickener, binder, and stabilizer in processed foods. In United States, Modified Starch is regulated under FDCA & FSMA as a food thickener. FDA permits "modified food starch" without requiring the specific source. However, if from wheat, "modified wheat starch" or a "Contains: Wheat" statement is required under FALCPA 2004 (FDCA Section 403). Many US manufacturers voluntarily disclose all sources.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "modified food starch" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "thickener" and E-number E1400–E1451
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "modified food starch"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Modified Starch
  • Omitting the E-number E1400–E1451 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Modified Starch content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"thickener: modified food starch"
"modified food starch" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... modified food starch ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Modified food starch, E1422) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Modified Starch" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Modified Starch and all its common names (Modified starch, Modified food starch, E1422, E1442) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under US rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Modified Starch be declared on food labels in US?

Declare as "modified food starch" in the ingredient list. FDA permits "modified food starch" without requiring the specific source. However, if from wheat, "modified wheat starch" or a "Contains: Wheat" statement is required under FALCPA 2004 (FDCA Section 403). Many US manufacturers voluntarily disclose all sources.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Modified Starch?

Modified Starch may appear under the following names: Modified starch, Modified food starch, E1422, E1442, Hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate, Acetylated distarch adipate. Common hidden sources include: Sauces, Soups, Baby food, Confectionery, Frozen meals, Dressings, Instant puddings.

Is Modified Starch banned or restricted in any market?

Requires mandatory warnings in: EU, UK.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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