Ingredient · Updated
Corn Syrup
Found in 74 productsSee all
Aptamil Baby Grow Milk 
Häagen-Dazs BUTTER PECAN ICE CREAM 
Gerber Puffs Sweet Potato 
Signature Select DARK RED KIDNEY BEANS 
Princella Cut Sweet Potatoes 
Ortega MILD ORIGINAL THICK & SMOOTH TACO SAUCE 
MuscleTech 100% Mass Gainer Vanilla Milkshake 
Ghirardelli Caramel Milk Chocolate Candy SQUARES Bar - 4.8oz What is Corn Syrup?
Corn syrup is a sweetener made from the starch of corn and composed mainly of glucose. It is produced by breaking down corn starch into smaller glucose molecules through a process called hydrolysis, using enzymes or acids.
This syrup is used in a variety of food and beverage products primarily to enhance sweetness and improve texture. It is a common ingredient in candy, baked goods, and processed foods due to its ability to prevent crystallization and retain moisture. Health-wise, corn syrup is often associated with high sugar intake, which can contribute to health issues like obesity and type 2 diabetes when consumed in large amounts.
When you see corn syrup on a label, it's important to note that it differs from high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which has a higher fructose content and is subject to more scrutiny in health discussions.
Commonly found in: Candies, Soft Drinks, Baked Goods, Ice Creams, Sauces
What to watch
- High consumption of corn syrup can contribute to increased calorie intake and potential weight gain.
- Excessive sugar intake from products containing corn syrup is linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Corn syrup is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Research indicates that excessive intake of sugars, including corn syrup, can lead to health issues such as obesity and metabolic disorders.
Corn syrup is plant-derived and generally considered vegan-friendly.
Sources: GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database · Dietary Sugars and Cardiometabolic Risk: Systematic Review and Meta-analyses of Randomized Controlled Trials of the Effects on Blood Pressure and Lipids
Scout's take
First ingredient — industrial glucose from corn refining.
The case against
May lead to increased risk of obesity and insulin resistance when consumed in large amounts.
from the analysis of Wheaties · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh consumption may lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and other metabolic disorders.
from the analysis of Sour Strips Rainbow Candy · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh fructose content may contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and liver issues.
from the analysis of Rold Gold Tiny Twists Original Pretzels Plastic Bag · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh sugar content may lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders.
from the analysis of Kellog Rice Krispies Treats Homestyle Bars · echoed in 1 other analysisHigh consumption may lead to increased risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
from the analysis of Log Cabin Original Syrup - 24 fl ozThe case for
Provides sweetness and moisture to baked goods, enhancing texture.
from the analysis of Good & Gather Mini Peanut Butter Filled PretzelsProvides a smooth texture and acts as a sweetener in moderation.
from the analysis of Häagen-Dazs BUTTER PECAN ICE CREAMMore from Scout's analyses
Refined sugar syrup.
from the analysis of Häagen-Dazs BUTTER PECAN ICE CREAMThird sweetener — triple sugar loading.
from the analysis of Nerds StrawberryHighly processed liquid glucose from industrial corn refining. The third form of sugar in this product. Rapidly spikes blood sugar with zero nutritional value.
from the analysis of Lucky CharmsAll 74 products with Corn Syrup
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Where Corn Syrup shows up
- Candy 28 products
- Ice Cream 7 products
- Salty Snacks 5 products
- Protein Bars 4 products
- Cereal 4 products
- Snack Bars 4 products
Higher-scoring picks without Corn Syrup
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Corn Syrup, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.