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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener in many processed foods and …
What it is
High fructose syrup, commonly known as high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), is a liquid sweetener made from corn. It is produced by first processing corn starch into corn syrup. Then, enzymes are used to change some of the glucose in the corn syrup into fructose, resulting in a sweeter product.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener in many processed foods and beverages. It also helps keep foods fresh, prevents sugar from forming crystals, and adds to the texture of products. You can find it in soft drinks, baked goods, cereals, and various condiments.
Health notes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers high fructose corn syrup to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use in food. Like other sugars, it provides calories and contributes to the total amount of added sugars in the diet. While some concerns have been raised about its role in health issues, major scientific bodies, including the American Medical Association, state that it is nutritionally similar to table sugar and processed similarly by the body. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams per meal from added sugars.
Allergen info
High fructose corn syrup is derived from corn, which is not one of the nine major food allergens identified by the FDA. It is also naturally gluten-free.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.