Sources and Assimilation of Maltose Maltose , a disaccharide sugar composed of two glucose molecules, plays a significant role in nutrition and energy metabolism. Understanding its sources and how the body assimilates it can help clarify its importance in our diet and overall health. Sources of Maltose 1. Natural Sources Maltose is primarily found in foods derived from grains. The most notable sources include: Malted Grains: Barley is the most common grain used in malting, where grains are soaked, germinated, and dried. This process activates enzymes that convert starches into sugars, including maltose. Malted barley is essential in brewing beer and making malted milk products. Starchy Foods: Foods rich in starch, such as potatoes, corn, and wheat, can also produce maltose during digestion. When these carbohydrates are broken down by enzymes in the digestive system, m...