define dextrose
Dextrose is added to foods to sweeten them. Photo Credit Debby Lewis-Harrison/Cultura/Getty Images. Dextrose is a form of glucose derived from starches. It is one of the most commonly used ingredients in packaged foods because of its affordability and wide availability. Baking products and desserts often contain dextrose, but it may be used as an added sugar in any processed food that is sweetened by the manufacturer.