Cornstarch

Thickener

Cornstarch at a glance

Category
Thickener
Also called
Cornflour
Commonly found in
Gravy, Sauces, Puddings, Baked goods
Diets reviewed
26 diets

What is Cornstarch?

Cornstarch is a white, powdery substance extracted from the endosperm of corn kernels. It is commonly used in the culinary world as a thickening agent for soups, sauces, gravies, and desserts. Cornstarch is valued for its ability to create a smooth, glossy texture without altering the flavor of dishes.

Also known as:

Cornflour

Diet Compatibility

Corn FreeAvoid

Cornstarch, also known as cornflour, is a fine white powder extracted from the endosperm of corn kernels and used as a thickening agent. Cornstarch should be avoided on a corn-free diet because it is derived entirely from corn.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Barley FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Egg FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.

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Fish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.

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Garlic FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.

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GERD FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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Lactose FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.

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Low FODMAPSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.

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Lupin FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.

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Milk FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.

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Nightshade FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.

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Oat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.

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Onion FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.

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Peanut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.

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PescatarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Pescatarian diet.

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Rye FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.

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Sesame FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.

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Shellfish FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.

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Soy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.

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Tree Nut FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.

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VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

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VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

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Wheat FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Cornstarch

People avoid cornstarch if they have a corn allergy or are following a corn-free diet. Since cornstarch is derived entirely from corn, it can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Additionally, those with corn intolerance may experience digestive discomfort or other adverse reactions after consuming cornstarch.

Potential Reactions

  • Allergic reactions such as hives, itching, or swelling
  • Digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

Foods That Commonly Contain Cornstarch

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Related to Cornstarch

Other ingredients people often check alongside Cornstarch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Spoonful reviews ingredients

  • Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
  • Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
  • Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
  • Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

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