Maltotriose and maltotetraose: recent advances and future perspectives in enzymatic production and functional applications in food and health

Maltooligosaccharides (MOS), particularly maltotriose (DP3) and maltotetraose (DP4), are key functional carbohydrates distinguished by their defined α-1,4-glycosidic linkages. These structures confer desirable properties, including low sweetness, non-cariogenicity, and superior processing stability. Despite their potential, industrial production of maltotriose and maltotetraose remains constrained by insufficient enzyme specificity, poor thermal stability, and yield variability. This review provides a systematic synthesis of the molecular structures, physicochemical properties, and enzymatic production pathways of maltotriose and maltotetraose. Particular emphasis is placed on the microbial sources and catalytic mechanisms of maltooligosaccharide-forming amylases (MFAses). By analyzing the structure-function relationship and highlighting the progress in enzyme engineering, this study provides relevant insights, thereby promoting the development and application of MOS in related fields. • A review of maltotriose and maltotetraose: structure, production, and function. • Focus on enzymatic synthesis of maltotriose and maltotetraose using MFAses and α-amylase systems. • Bottlenecks and prospects in the industrial application of maltotriose and maltotetraose.