Corn and maize sources on ingredient labels

By DietTribe · Updated 11 October 2026 · How we source our data

Some starch-derived ingredients name their source on the label. When the source is corn or maize, there is no gluten source to worry about for that ingredient. We found 114 products in our database that state one for maltodextrin, glucose syrup or dextrose.

Why the source is worth reading

Maltodextrin, glucose syrup and dextrose are all made by breaking down starch. The starch can come from corn, wheat or other crops, which is why an unqualified listing leaves a question open, and why we flag it as a possible trace risk. A label that writes (corn) or (maize) after the ingredient answers it.

One guide per ingredient

What a stated source does not tell you

  • It settles one ingredient, not the product. A crumbed chicken product can list maltodextrin (maize) and still contain wheat in the crumb.
  • A stated source is only as good as the label. If a formulation changes, so can its sources. Check the package.

Spotted a product we've got wrong, or one we're missing? Submit it and help make the database better for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Which ingredients can carry a corn or maize source on the label?

Maltodextrin, glucose syrup and dextrose are the three we track. Each is made from starch, and the starch can come from corn, wheat or other crops, so the label can name the source in brackets.

Are corn and maize the same thing?

Yes. Maize is the same crop as corn. Both spellings appear on New Zealand labels.

Does a stated corn source make the whole product gluten free?

No. It settles one ingredient. The rest of the ingredient list, the allergen statement and any "may contain" line still apply.

Medical & accuracy disclaimer: DietTribe provides general information, not medical advice. Coeliac disease is a medical condition — talk to your doctor or dietitian about your diet. Product formulations change; always check the ingredient list and allergen statement on the physical package before eating, and confirm with the manufacturer if unsure. Product statuses shown here reflect our database at the time this page was built.

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More guides

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Is maltodextrin gluten free?

Maltodextrin is usually gluten free, even when made from wheat — but there is one label detail you must check. What the NZ rules say, plus real products from our database.

Read guide →
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Maltodextrin from corn or maize

When a label says maltodextrin (corn) or maltodextrin (maize), the source is settled. Every product in our database that states it, and what that does and does not tell you.

Read guide →
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Glucose syrup from corn or maize

When a label says glucose syrup (corn) or glucose syrup (maize), the source is settled. Every product in our database that states it, and what that does and does not tell you.

Read guide →