There is no gelatin in gelatinized maca; rather; the starch in gelatinized maca powder has undergone a chemical transformation referred to as gelatinization. Regular maca powder has to be extensively processed to become gelatinized maca. Maca powder is mixed with water, exposed to high-pressure conditions, and then dried and pulverized. Gelatinized starches are more easily digestible, and scientists theorize that this increases maca’s bioavailability.[1] [2] However, it is unknown whether different maca preparations have different therapeutic effects.
What’s the difference between gelatinized maca and maca powder?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Gelatinized maca is maca powder that has undergone a chemical transformation called gelatinization, which makes its starches more easily digestible than those in regular maca powder, which requires extensive processing. The increased digestibility may enhance maca's bioavailability, although the therapeutic effects of different maca preparations remain uncertain.