Corn Syrup Artificial Colors

Corn syrup is a liquid sweetener made from corn starch, produced by breaking down corn starch into sugars. Artificial colors are synthetic substances, typically derived from petroleum, added to foods to give them color and enhance visual appeal.

Corn syrup is used to sweeten, thicken, and prevent sugar crystallization in products like candies, baked goods, and beverages. Artificial colors are added to these and other processed foods to maintain consistent color or make them more attractive.

Corn syrup is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and is a source of added sugars; the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars. Artificial colors are approved by the FDA, though in April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, and Red 3 was revoked for food use in January 2025. While JECFA has evaluated many individual artificial colors and set acceptable daily intakes, the safety of these colors has been debated, with mixed evidence regarding potential links to hyperactivity in some children.