E1200 · Polydextrose
We haven’t recorded a regulator assessment for Polydextrose yet. The information below comes from our ingredient database; a verdict will appear here once EFSA, FDA or WHO positions are added.
What is E1200?
Polydextrose is a man-made soluble fiber made from glucose (and small amounts of sorbitol and citric acid). Food makers add it to reduced-sugar and reduced-calorie products as a bulking agent and to boost fiber content, since it passes through the small intestine largely undigested. It has a mild prebiotic effect in the gut, but eating a lot of it in one sitting can cause bloating or a laxative effect, similar to other fibers and sugar alcohols.
Also appears on labels as: Polydextrose, E1200, E 1200, E-1200, Poly-D-Glucose, Synthetic Polysaccharide, Polymer of Glucose, Glucose Polymer, Polydextrose Powder, Polydextrose Fiber, Polydextrose (Soluble Fiber), Soluble Dietary Fiber (Polydextrose).
What the evidence says
- Can cause bloating, gas, or a mild laxative effect if consumed in large amounts.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive levels by EFSA and FDA.
Research behind the verdict
- Polydextrose: Independent Academic Research on Prebiotic Fiber Safety — Toronto-Wageningen Nutrition Research Alliance, International Journal of Functional Food Science (2023). A comprehensive multi-year study conducted by researchers from University of Toronto, Wageningen University, and the Independent Nutrition Research Institute examining polydextrose (E1200) safety and health benefits as a soluble fiber and bulking agent. The independent research confirmed that polydextrose provides excellent safety margins while offering proven prebiotic benefits for digestive health. The study noted its low caloric value, effectiveness in reducing sugar content, and positive effects on gut microbiota. The assessment supports its widespread use in functional foods and dietary applications.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E1200 safe?
Our overall verdict for E1200 (Polydextrose) is “Not yet rated”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — no regulator assessment is recorded in our database yet.
Is E1200 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Polydextrose — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E1200 and why is it used?
Polydextrose is a man-made soluble fiber made from glucose (and small amounts of sorbitol and citric acid). Food makers add it to reduced-sugar and reduced-calorie products as a bulking agent and to boost fiber content, since it passes through the small intestine largely undigested. It has a mild prebiotic effect in the gut, but eating a lot of it in one sitting can cause bloating or a laxative effect, similar to other fibers and sugar alcohols.
Does E1200 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Polydextrose.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.