Fruit Filling: High Fructose Corn Syrup

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a liquid sweetener made from corn starch. Enzymes are used to convert some of the glucose in corn syrup into fructose, resulting in a mixture of glucose and fructose. It is similar in composition to table sugar, which is also a mix of glucose and fructose.

Manufacturers use high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener in many processed foods and beverages. It also helps to maintain moisture, improve texture, and extend the shelf life of products. It is commonly found in soft drinks, baked goods, cereals, and fruit fillings.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers high-fructose corn syrup to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods. Like other caloric sweeteners, it provides energy (calories) to the diet. Scientific bodies, including the American Medical Association, have stated that HFCS is nutritionally similar to table sugar, and there is no evidence that it is uniquely harmful when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The main concern is the overall intake of added sugars from all sources; the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal.