α-CYCLODEXTRIN
New specifications prepared at the 57th JECFA (2001) and published in FNP 52 Add 9 (2001). An ADI “not specified” was established at the 57th
JECFA (2001).
SYNONYMS α-Schardinger dextrin, α-dextrin, cyclohexaamylose, cyclomaltohexaose, α-cycloamylase
DEFINITION A non-reducing cyclic saccharide consisting of six α-1,4-linked Dglucopyranosyl units produced by the action of cyclodextrin glucosyltransferase (CGTase, EC 2.4.1.19) on hydrolyzed starch. Recovery and purification of α-cyclodextrin may be carried out using one of
the following procedures: precipitation of a complex of α-cyclodextrin with 1-decanol, dissolution in water at elevated temperature and reprecipitation,
steam-stripping of the complexant, and crystallization of α-cyclodextrin from the solution; or chromatography with ion-exchange or gel filtration
followed by crystallization of α-cyclodextrin from the purified mother liquor; or membrane separation methods such as ultra-filtration and reverse osmosis.
Chemical names Cyclohexaamylose
C.A.S. number 10016-20-3
Chemical formula (C6H10O5)6
Formula weight 972.85
Assay Not less than 98% (dry basis)
DESCRIPTION Virtually odourless, white or almost white crystalline solid
FUNCTIONAL USES Carrier; encapsulation agent for food additives, flavourings, and vitamins; stabilizer; absorbent
