Potato starch definition refers to the purified carbohydrate extracted from potato tubers by rasping, washing and drying, valued in food trade for its high viscosity, neutral taste and function as a thickener or binder.
In trade practice
Buyers specify moisture content, protein level, ash content and viscosity in purchase contracts, with certificates of analysis issued per batch by accredited laboratories. Suppliers must demonstrate compliance with food-grade hygiene standards and, for EU import, with general food law requirements. A common mistake is failing to distinguish native potato starch from modified starch, which carries different labelling obligations under EU food additive rules.
In a specification
A specification typically states maximum moisture, maximum ash and minimum viscosity measured by a defined method such as Brabender units, alongside packaging and storage conditions.