What is pregelatinized starch?
- Jasmine Uchi, PharmD
- Jul 24
- 4 min read
Pregelatinized starch is a plant-based ingredient that works behind the scenes in many everyday products. It’s made by cooking starch from sources like corn, potato, or rice with heat and moisture, then drying it into a fine powder. This makes it dissolve easily in both hot and cold liquids, without needing to be cooked again. It’s often used to thicken or stabilize foods like soups, sauces, and baked goods, and it also appears in items like baby formula, skincare, and medicine for its smooth, consistent texture.
Does "gelatinized" mean it has gelatin?
Despite the name, pregelatinized starch does not contain gelatin. The word “gelatinized” refers to how the starch is processed, not what it’s made from. Gelatin is a protein from animal collagen, while pregelatinized starch comes from plants. When starch is gelatinized, it means it has been heated with water to change its structure, making it easier to dissolve and use in products. While the name can be confusing, pregelatinized starch is not animal-derived.
What is pregelatinized starch used for?
Pregelatinized starch has a wide range of practical uses:
Food: Used to thicken instant soups, sauces, and puddings without cooking. It also improves the texture of low-fat or gluten-free foods and prevents water separation in dressings or fillings.
Pharmaceuticals: Helps tablets stick together and controls how they dissolve in the body.
Skincare & Beauty: Used in powders and creams to improve texture and absorb oil.
Paper & Packaging: Serves as a glue and surface finisher
Examples of Products with Pregelatinized Starch
Category | Examples | Brand Names |
Instant Foods | Mashed potatoes, pudding mixes | Bob’s Red Mill Potato Flakes |
Baked Goods | Gluten-free cookies | Sweet Loren’s, Pillsbury Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Premium Cookie Mix |
Protein Powders & Meal Replacements | Used as a thickener in vegan and non-vegan shakes | Smart Strength Vegan Protein Vanilla Milkshake, FitProteins Vegan Protein Powder |
Medications & Supplements | Ibuprofen tablets, acetaminophen, multivitamins | Advil, Tylenol® Regular Strength Tablets |
Cosmetics | Face powders, body lotions, deodorants | Revlon Pressed Powder, Each & Every deodorant |
How is pregelatinized starch used in pharmaceuticals?
Pregelatinized starch is commonly used in medications as a binder, disintegrant, and filler. It helps tablets hold their shape, break down properly in the body, and maintain a smooth texture. It’s found in over 700 prescription drugs, including common products like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and multivitamins. While it’s inactive, it plays a key role in how the medication works and feels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregelatinized Starch
Is pregelatinized starch gluten-free?
It can be. Pregelatinized starch is often made from corn, rice, or potato, which are naturally gluten-free. However, if it’s made from wheat, it may contain gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should always check the source or look for gluten-free labeling. When in doubt, Pill Clarity offers support by verifying whether a health product contains gluten or wheat-derived starch.
Is pregelatinized starch vegan or halal?
Yes, it is usually vegan and halal because it's made from plants like corn, potato, or tapioca. Still, it's a good idea to confirm the source with the manufacturer, especially in medications, as some formulations may include other non-plant additives.
What’s the difference between pregelatinized starch and cornstarch?
Cornstarch is raw and needs to be cooked to thicken, while pregelatinized starch is pre-cooked and dissolves easily in both hot and cold liquids. Pregelatinized starch offers more convenience in instant foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Where can pregelatinized starch be found on ingredient lists?
It is typically listed as "pregelatinized starch" or sometimes simply as "starch" on the ingredient labels of foods, supplements, and medications.
Conclusion
Pregelatinized starch is a versatile, plant-based ingredient found in a variety of products, including instant foods, baked goods, medications, and cosmetics. Its quick-dissolving and texture-enhancing properties make it valuable across industries. Although the name may be misleading, it does not contain gelatin and is usually free from animal-derived ingredients. Those with dietary restrictions should always verify the source. Pill Clarity can assist in confirming whether health products with pregelatinized starch align with gluten-free, halal, or plant-based needs.
Co-authored by: Lila Hamed
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on Pill Clarity is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
Transparent medical information is a fundamental human right—your support helps keep this vital service alive.
Looking for certified and verified animal-free products?
Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients!
As a reminder, please comment on our FDA Citizen Petition, requesting clear labeling of animal-derived ingredients in medications. Together, we can make a difference.
If you have any further questions about ingredients in your medicines and supplements, feel free to reach out to the Pill Clarity team!
Comments