Long Linear Chain Maltodextrins are polysaccharides which are formed by hydrolysis of starch. Starch contains repeating glucose units linked by an alpha 1 to 4 bond and have branches at regular intervals. Long linear chain maltodextrins do not contain these side branching chains but have linear residues of glucose. The can act as a time release source of energy. They are much less sweeter than sucrose so they can be used as a food additive where altering the taste is to be avoided by the user. They provide a steady release of glucose and provide energy over extended periods of time.