Dextrose Equivalent (DE)

A measure of the degree of starch hydrolysis, expressed as a percentage of reducing power relative to pure dextrose (glucose, which has a DE of 100). An unmodified starch has a DE of approximately 0; dextrose monohydrate has a DE of 100. Maltodextrin (DE 5–20) occupies the middle range. Higher DE indicates shorter glucose chains, more sweetness, lower viscosity, and faster digestion. Lower DE indicates longer chains, less sweetness, higher viscosity, and slower digestion. Always specify DE range when ordering maltodextrin — it is the single most important specification for the product.