Everything You Should Know About Maltodextrin in Baby Formula

When you’re searching for the best organic baby formula, it’s natural to want to know exactly what’s going into your baby’s bottle. One ingredient that often raises questions is maltodextrin. If you’ve found yourself wondering, “what even is maltodextrin?” or “is maltodextrin safe for babies?”, you’re not alone.

At Zen Organic Formula, we’re all about the facts. We’re here to give you clear information so you can make an informed choice. In this post, we’ll explain what maltodextrin actually is, why some formulas include it, and why many European organic baby formulas choose to leave it out. We’ll also share a few of our most trusted maltodextrin-free baby formulas if you’re looking to keep things simple and clean.

Let’s get into it!

Why parents are concerned

As more families seek out organic, European-style baby formula, they’re also getting more thoughtful about what’s on the label. Terms like “non-GMO,” “organic,” and “no added sugars” are now just the beginning. Parents are reading ingredient lists more closely than ever, and understandably so.

Maltodextrin is one of those ingredients that often causes a pause. While it’s a common carbohydrate used in many infant formulas (especially outside of Europe), not all parents are comfortable with it being added to baby formula, especially when there are more natural alternatives available.

What is maltodextrin and why is it used in formula?

Maltodextrin is a type of carbohydrate made from starch, usually derived from corn, rice, or wheat. It’s often added to formula as a source of energy and to help with the formula’s consistency and shelf stability.

In many cases, it’s used as a cheaper alternative to lactose, which is the main carbohydrate naturally found in breast milk. While it is considered safe for infants and approved by food safety authorities, maltodextrin digests more quickly than lactose and doesn’t offer the same nutritional benefits.

Maltodextrin is used in formula to…

• Supplement or replace lactose
• Improve taste or texture
• Provide fast-digesting energy
• Stabilize the formula’s composition

While it can serve a functional purpose, it’s not a necessary ingredient, and many European baby formula brands choose to avoid it entirely.

Why many European organic formulas don’t include maltodextrin

One of the reasons parents turn to European organic baby formula is because of the strict regulations and emphasis on clean, whole ingredients. Many of these formulas are designed to be as close as possible to breast milk, and that means prioritizing lactose as the primary source of carbohydrates.

European brands also tend to avoid fillers, artificial sweeteners, and other processed ingredients (maltodextrin included). Instead, they focus on:

• Lactose-based carbohydrates (similar to breast milk)
• Whole milk fats rather than plant oils like palm oil
• Fewer additives and simpler ingredient lists
• Organic, traceable sourcing from pasture-raised animals

Our maltodextrin-free baby formula recommendations

If you’re looking for a formula that skips maltodextrin and focuses on clean, organic ingredients, here are some of the best (in our biased opinion) European baby formulas we carry:

HiPP German Bio Combiotik Baby Formula

One of our most trusted picks, this formula uses lactose as the main carbohydrate and includes beneficial prebiotics and probiotics to support digestion. HiPP is known for high-quality ingredients and gentle formulations.

Kendamil Classic Cow Milk Baby Formula

Made with whole milk fats and absolutely no maltodextrin, Kendamil is a standout for parents who want a formula with a natural fat source and no palm oil. It’s also vegetarian-friendly and rich in naturally occurring nutrients.

Kabrita Goat Milk Baby Formula

A gentle goat milk option that uses lactose and milk sugars, not maltodextrin. Kabrita is often a go-to for babies with sensitive digestion who still need complete, balanced nutrition.

Nannycare Goat Milk Baby Formula

Produced from the finest milk from New Zealand goats, this whole-milk-based formula is free from maltodextrin and is carefully crafted to be as close as possible to the natural composition of breast milk—using high-quality goat milk as the base.

Should I avoid maltodextrin in baby formula?

Maltodextrin isn’t inherently dangerous or “bad.” It’s a widely used carbohydrate that’s generally well-tolerated. But if you’re looking for a formula with clean ingredients, or one that’s closer to the composition of breast milk, choosing a maltodextrin-free baby formula can be a great step, especially if your baby has a sensitive tummy or is prone to sleepless nights.

Whether your priority is organic farming practices, gut-friendly ingredients, or just keeping things as simple as possible, there are plenty of European baby formulas without maltodextrin that support your baby’s growth, and give you peace of mind.

Ready to find the best organic formula for your baby?

At Zen Organic Formula, we only carry carefully vetted, high-quality formulas from trusted European brands. If you’re not sure which one to choose, we’re always happy to help you find a formula that fits your baby’s needs… and your values.

Explore our full collection of European organic baby formulas here!