Maltodextrin is used to thicken or add creaminess or volume to processed foods, along with acting as a preservative. Derived from starchy sources such as barley, corn, oats or potatoes, it is used to thicken products including instant pudding, gelatins, salad dressings, coffee creamers, protein shakes and more. It is widely used to crystallize artificial sweeteners and add mouth-feel as a replacement for fats.