What is a limit dextrin?

Limit dextrin is a type of carbohydrate that results from the partial hydrolysis of starch. It consists of short-chain glucose polymers, usually containing 3 to 10 glucose units. Limit dextrins are resistant to further breakdown by enzymes like alpha-amylase, which is why they are termed "limit" dextrins, indicating they are the residual product after enzyme action. These dextrins are often used in food and pharmaceutical applications for their functional properties.