This section focuses on an overview of hydroxypropyl starch powder and granular as well as its manufacturing processes and uses. Also, please check out the introduction to hydroxypropyl starch manufacturers, supply chain issues, hydroxypropyl starch suppliers, and hydroxypropyl starch prices. Sinofi can help you buy high-quality hydroxypropyl starch in bulk for your industry applications at wholesale prices based on E1440 and CAS 9049-76-7.
Table of Contents
What is Hydroxypropyl Starch?
Hydroxypropyl starch is produced through the reaction between starch and propylene oxide under alkaline conditions. This process, known as hydroxypropylation, introduces hydroxypropyl groups (-CH₂CH(OH)CH₃) to the starch molecule, replacing some of the hydroxyl (-OH) groups in the original starch structure. The introduction of hydroxypropyl groups imparts several advantageous properties to starch:
- Enhanced water solubility and dispersibility, even at lower temperatures.
- Improved clarity of solutions compared to native starch.
- Increased stability against retrogradation (the recrystallization of starch molecules)..
- Reduced gelatinization temperature.
- Better freeze-thaw stability.
- Enhanced film-forming capabilities.
- Improved viscosity stability in acidic conditions
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hydroxypropyl starch is approved to be used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
CAS No.: 9049-76-7
According to the American Chemical Society, the CAS number of hydroxypropyl starch is 9049-76-7.
Molecular Formula: C3H8O2.x Unspecified.
Appearance: White powder.
Solubility: Easily soluble in hot water.
Other Names:
Starch, 2-hydroxypropyl ether
Starch hydroxypropyl ether
O-(Hydroxypropyl) starch
2-Hydroxypropyl starch ether
2-Hydroxypropyl starch
Hydroxypropyl starch
Propoxylated starch
E 1440
Hydroxypropylated starch
E number: E1440
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), hydroxypropyl starch is approved to be used as food additive E1440.
Bulk Hydroxypropyl Starch Manufacturers
The global hydroxypropyl starch production capacity continues to evolve in response to changing market demands and technical innovations. It is dominated by several bulk manufacturers like Tate & Lyle, Ingredion, Roquette, and Croda. They operate significant manufacturing facilities in the USA and EU and specialize in specialty food ingredients, including modified starches.
Sinofi is a bulk hydroxypropyl starch manufacturer in China, and we have a manufacturing facility with 2,500 square meters for the production of hydroxypropyl starch E1440. We supply high-quality hydroxypropyl starch at bulk prices and serve food, pharmaceutical, paper, and other industries worldwide.
Manufacturing Process of Hydroxypropyl Starch
The manufacturing of hydroxypropyl starch is a sophisticated process requiring precise control of reaction conditions and thorough purification procedures.
Raw Material Sourcing
The hydroxypropyl starch supply chain begins with the cultivation and harvesting of starch-rich crops. Primary sources include:
- Corn (maize): Predominantly sourced from the United States, Brazil, and China.
- Potato: Major suppliers include European countries (France, Germany, Netherlands, Poland).
- Tapioca: Primarily from Southeast Asian countries (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia).
- Wheat: Sourced from North America, Europe, and Australia.
Primary Processing
Once harvested, starch-rich crops undergo primary processing to extract native starch:
- Crop reception and cleaning
- Grinding/milling
- Separation of starch from other components (protein, fiber)
- Purification through washing and filtering
- Drying and packaging of native starch
Major starch extraction facilities are strategically located in the American Midwest, Western Europe, and agricultural centers in Asia.
Chemical Modification
The transformation of native starch into hydroxypropyl starch occurs through chemical modification:
- Native starch is treated with propylene oxide under alkaline conditions.
- The reaction introduces hydroxypropyl groups to the starch molecules.
- The modified starch undergoes neutralization.
- Purification processes remove unwanted byproducts.
- Drying and standardization ensure consistent quality specifications.
This stage requires specialized chemical processing capabilities and rigorous quality control protocols.
Quality Control and Analysis
Rigorous quality control measures are implemented throughout the manufacturing process:
- The degree of substitution (DS) and molar substitution (MS) are determined using analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy or titration methods.
- Functional properties such as viscosity, gelatinization temperature, paste clarity, and stability are evaluated using specialized rheological instruments.
- Microbiological testing ensures the product meets safety standards for its intended applications.
Bulk Hydroxypropyl Starch Suppliers
The global hydroxypropyl starch supply is dominated by several bulk suppliers like Tate & Lyle, Ingredion, Roquette, and Croda. With manufacturing facilities across multiple continents, they offer a comprehensive portfolio of hydroxypropyl starch products under various brand names. Their products cater primarily to the food and pharmaceutical industries, with an emphasis on clean-label solutions.
Sinofi is a bulk hydroxypropyl starch supplier in China, and we have a warehouse with 1,200 square meters for high-quality hydroxypropyl starch E1440. We sell different grades of hydroxypropyl starch at wholesale prices to food, pharmaceutical, paper, and other industrial manufacturers.
Supply Chain of Hydroxypropyl Starch
The hydroxypropyl starch supply chain represents a complex global network connecting agricultural production to specialized chemical processing and diverse end-use industries.
Supply Chain Structure
Tier 1: Raw Material Suppliers
Agricultural producers and cooperatives supply starch-rich crops to primary processors. This tier experiences significant seasonal variations, weather dependencies, and regional price fluctuations. Agricultural production represents the foundation of the supply chain, with crop yields directly impacting raw material availability and pricing dynamics for downstream processors.
Tier 2: Primary Processors
Companies specializing in starch extraction convert raw agricultural products into native starch. These operations require significant capital investment and technical expertise in separation technologies.
Tier 3: Chemical Modification Manufacturers
Specialized manufacturers transform native starch into hydroxypropyl starch through controlled chemical reactions. This tier represents the highest value-added segment in the supply chain.
Tier 4: Distributors
Specialized chemical distributors manage the movement of finished hydroxypropyl starch to various industries.
Tier 5: End Users
Food manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, paper manufacturers, and other industrial users incorporate hydroxypropyl starch into their products and formulations.
As demand for specialized starch derivatives grows, particularly in pharmaceutical and food applications, further refinement of supply chain strategies will remain essential for manufacturers seeking competitive advantage in this specialized market.
Wholesale and Buy Hydroxypropyl Starch in Bulk
Hydroxypropyl starch buyers should evaluate suppliers based on product specifications, quality systems, regulatory compliance, and technical support capabilities to ensure optimal performance in their specific applications. Establishing relationships with reputable suppliers and implementing proper storage practices will ensure consistent quality and performance in end applications.
When sourcing hydroxypropyl starch, buyers should consider several factors beyond price:
- Degree of substitution (DS) – This critical parameter influences the functional properties of the hydroxypropyl starch and should match application requirements.
- Botanical source – Hydroxypropyl starch can be derived from corn, potato, tapioca, wheat, or other starch sources, each imparting different characteristics.
- Regulatory compliance – Ensuring the supplier’s products meet relevant regulatory requirements for the intended application.
- Technical support – Leading suppliers typically offer application expertise to help customers optimize hydroxypropyl starch usage in their formulations.
- Supply chain reliability – Considering supplier manufacturing capacity, geographic location, and contingency planning.
When sourcing hydroxypropyl starch in bulk quantities, buyers should:
- Request detailed product specifications and certificates of analysis.
- Inquire about minimum order quantities and volume-based pricing.
- Evaluate shipping capabilities and lead times.
- Consider forming strategic partnerships for consistent supply.
As a bulk hydroxypropyl starch manufacturer and supplier in China, we supply high-quality E1440 ingredient for food, pharmaceutical, paper and other industries. We also wholesale hydroxypropyl starch to small customers. Normally, they want to buy hydroxypropyl starch in small quantities. To serve them, we can wholesale high-quality hydroxypropyl starch at bulk prices and provide a one-stop purchasing service.
Hydroxypropyl Starch Prices (USD/Kg)
Food Grade Hydroxypropyl Starch Prices (Hydroxypropyl groups, g/100g ≤7.0)
| Volume | Unit Price | Shipment |
| 50g | 3 USD | Express |
| 500g | 9 USD | Express |
| 1Kg | 14 USD /Kg | Express |
| 10Kg | negotiable | Express |
| 100Kg-Above | negotiable | Express / Sea |
Hydroxypropyl starch, a chemically modified starch derivative, has experienced notable price fluctuations throughout 2024, driven by shifting supply chain dynamics and evolving industrial demand. Recent disruptions in propylene oxide supply, a key raw material for hydroxypropyl starch production, have contributed to cost pressures. Several factors influence the pricing of bulk hydroxypropyl starch:
- Raw material source (corn, potato, tapioca, propylene oxide, etc.).
- Degree of substitution and modification.
- Quality grade (food, pharmaceutical, industrial).
- Order volume and frequency.
- Geographic location and shipping requirements.
- Current market conditions for raw starch.
Pharmaceutical applications continue to represent the highest-value segment for hydroxypropyl starch, with increasing adoption in controlled-release drug formulations driving premium pricing. The food industry’s growing preference for clean-label modified starches has also supported steady demand, particularly in North America and Europe, where consumer awareness regarding food additives has intensified.
Furthermore, the above hydroxypropyl starch price quotations, especially for small orders, do not include the express shipping fee. The reason is that the shipment cost of hydroxypropyl starch may exceed the value of the sample. However, the bulk wholesale prices of hydroxypropyl starch will be much lower than those of small orders. Please contact us for more details.
Hydroxypropyl Starch Uses
Hydroxypropyl starch represents an important modified starch derivative widely utilized across multiple industries.
Food Uses
In food applications, hydroxypropyl starch serves as an effective thickener, stabilizer, and texture modifier. It is commonly used in:
- Frozen foods: freeze-thaw stability prevents texture degradation.
- Acidic food products: acid resistance.
- Bakery food: enhance moisture retention and extend shelf life.
- Dairy food: provide stable texture and prevent syneresis.
- Sauces and dressings: offer consistent viscosity and mouthfeel.
Pharmaceutical Uses
The pharmaceutical sector utilizes hydroxypropyl starch for:
- Tablet binding and disintegration
- Controlled-release drug delivery systems
- Film coating applications
- Capsule formulations
Paper Uses
In paper manufacturing, hydroxypropyl starch contributes to:
- Surface sizing for improved printability
- Coating formulations for enhanced paper quality
- Strengthening internal bonds in paper products
Other Uses
Additional uses include:
- Textile sizing agents
- Adhesives for various substrates
- Personal care products
- Construction materials
Regulatory Considerations
Regulatory authorities, including the FDA and European Food Safety Authority, have established specific guidelines for hydroxypropyl starch usage in food applications. The degree of substitution (DS) and hydroxypropyl content are closely monitored to ensure product safety.
Hydroxypropyl Starch Benefits
Hydroxypropyl starch offers substantial benefits across diverse industries, from food production to pharmaceuticals and beyond. Its modified properties continue to drive its adoption in innovative applications.
- Enhanced stability,
- Improved clarity,
- Controlled-release capabilities,
- Environmental advantages.
As industries increasingly prioritize performance alongside sustainability, hydroxypropyl starch stands as an exemplary ingredient that effectively balances functionality with environmental considerations.
Hydroxypropyl Starch Used in Food
An Improver for Frozen Dough Premix Powder
The improver comprises the following ingredients (by weight): xylanase, 2 parts; transglutaminase, 1 part; α-amylase, 0.5 part; glucose oxidase, 2 parts; maltotriose starch enzyme, 2 parts; lipase, 0.3 part; guar gum, 20 parts; sodium alginate, 20 parts; sodium polyacrylate, 20 parts; sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 20 parts; propylene glycol alginate, 20 parts; monoglyceride and diglyceride of fatty acids, 20 parts; DATEM, 20 parts; sodium stearoyl lactate, 20 parts; sodium tripolyphosphate, 10 parts; sodium pyrophosphate, 5 parts; sodium dihydrogen phosphate, 10 parts; sodium hexametaphosphate, 10 parts; hydroxypropyl starch, 30 parts.
The flour and the improver are used in a ratio of 98:2.
In conclusion, hydroxypropyl starch represents a versatile modified starch with applications spanning multiple industries. Its enhanced functional properties, including improved solubility, stability, and processing characteristics, make it a valuable ingredient across food, pharmaceutical, paper, textile, and cosmetic applications. As a bulk hydroxypropyl starch manufacturer and supplier in China, we sell different grades of hydroxypropyl starch at wholesale prices to large manufacturers and small customers worldwide.