E1200: Polydextrose
Main role: bulking and texture control
Also listed as: polydextrose polymer
What is E1200 (Polydextrose)?
Polydextrose is a manufactured carbohydrate polymer used to provide bulk and support texture. It can replace some of the physical volume of sugar or fat without recreating every property of those ingredients.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is bulking and texture control. These ingredients help manage moisture, volume, or texture. Replacing part of a recipe with a humectant or bulking ingredient can change several food properties, but the final nutrition values depend on the whole formulation.
Food and formulation examples
- Reduced-sugar confectionery
- Desserts
- Bakery products
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E1200, E 1200, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include polydextrose polymer. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Replacing bulk does not establish that the finished food is low in calories or high in fiber. Compare the nutrition label and consider tolerance when eating larger quantities.
Is E1200 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E1200 as Polydextrose. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.