Maltose. Computer-generated molecular model of maltose (C12H22O11). Maltose is composed of carbon (green), hydrogen (grey-white) and oxygen (red). Maltose is a disaccharide (sugar) that is commonly produced by the action of amylase on starch or glycogen. Saccharides are comprised of rings of four or five carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. Attached around the ring are hydroxyl (OH) groups. Disaccharides comprise two monosaccharides joined together, in this case both are glucose. Maltose is used in brewing, soft drinks and foods.