Thickeners & Emulsifiers

Maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate used as a thickener and preservative. It has a very high glycemic index.

Extracted from red seaweed. Widely used to thicken dairy and plant-based milks. May cause digestive issues.

A common emulsifier used to keep oil and water mixed, completely safe for most.

A natural thickener made from the guar bean. Generally safe but can cause mild digestive issues in large amounts.

Created through bacterial fermentation of sugars. Prevents ingredients from separating.

Used to make ice cream smoother and prevent melting. Linked to gut inflammation.

Used to make ice cream melt slower. Emerging studies link it to gut inflammation and metabolic syndrome.

A plant-based, completely vegan gelatin substitute derived straight from red marine algae.

Chemically altered plant starch used to bulk up instant soups and sauces. A highly processed carbohydrate.

Keeps processed cheese sliceable and meat tender. Heavy consumption severely damages kidney function.

Extremely common in bread and ice cream. Often contains hidden trans fats and may be animal-derived.

A very safe natural carbohydrate extracted from citrus peels or apples to gel jams.