What is "modified Food Starch"? Are there different kinds, based on where the starch came from?

Question

I have read in another answer that modified refers to genetically modified.

However, I have always thought it was a manufacturing process that made it somehow different than it was originally.

Answer 1

While just researching another answer about corn starch (hey, looks like that was your question, too!), I came across this section in my research on it:

"MODIFICATION

Most starch is used for industrial purposes. Starch is tailor made to meet the requirements of the end-user giving rise to a range of speciality products. Many and sophisticated techniques are applied. A most versatile principle comprises a three step wet modification:

By applying different reaction conditions - temperature, pH, additives - and strict process control speciality products with unique properties are made.

These speciality products are named modified starches. They still retain their original granule form and thereby resemble the native (unmodified) starch in appearance, but the modification has introduced improved qualities in the starch when cooked. The paste may have obtained improved clarity, viscosity, film-forming ability etc."

This seems to indicate that the modification is *not* genetic in this instance, but merely a process modification that improves the final starch product. The section is at the bottom of the linked page below. Hope this clears things up for you!

Answer 2

it is a genetically modified food. not very good for you. its a derivitive of a natural starch.
the fact that its modified changes some of its physical properties and the way and ease with which it can be digested.
basically its best not to eat it as it is not digestable in many people and causes stomach problems, plus its not even a real food, its fake...so just buy organic food and stay away from modified starch and things like high fructose corn syrup. yuck