What does modified mean on food?

Question

On some food I see ingredients such as 'Modified Cornstarch'. What does this mean? How has it been modified exactly? Does it mean genetically modified or something else?

Answer 1

It usually means that something has been added or taken from it. Modified cornstarch is usually bleached for color. Which is considered a modification of the natural cornstarch. It also has anti-caking agents added into it, so it stays powdery and not clumpy.