Tapioca starch, also known as tapioca flour, is a fine, powdery substance extracted from the cassava root. It is a popular gluten-free thickening agent used in cooking and baking, providing a smooth texture in sauces, soups, and gravies. In baking, tapioca starch helps improve the texture of gluten-free breads and pastries, adding moisture and elasticity. It's also used to make chewy tapioca pearls, found in bubble tea and desserts. Tasteless and odorless, it blends well with other ingredients without altering flavor. Tapioca starch is highly digestible and often used as a substitute for cornstarch. Its versatility and gluten-free nature make it a staple in both traditional and specialized diets.