Marshmallows: Corn Syrup

Corn syrup is a liquid sweetener made from corn starch. The starch is broken down into sugars, primarily glucose, through a process called hydrolysis. It is a thick, clear syrup.

Manufacturers add corn syrup to foods primarily as a sweetener and to provide texture. It helps prevent sugar crystallization in candies and baked goods, keeps products moist, and adds body to sauces and desserts. It is commonly found in candies, baked goods, jams, and ice cream.

Corn syrup is a food ingredient generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is a source of added sugars, which contribute calories to the diet. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. Corn syrup is often confused with high-fructose corn syrup, but they are different products with varying sugar compositions.