Starch treated so it survives freezing, heat or acid. 'Modified' refers to processing, not genetic modification.
Job
Thickens and stabilizes sauces, soups and fillings.
Evidence & sources
'Food starch-modified' is an FDA-regulated additive; 'modified' refers to physical or chemical treatment, not genetic engineering. Evidence: regulatory. Known: US regulation 21 CFR 172.892. Unknown: — Source: US FDA, 21 CFR 172.892 (Current revision).