Ingredient

High Fructose Corn Syrup

Flagged in 22

What is High Fructose Corn Syrup?

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener derived from cornstarch. During production, corn syrup undergoes enzymatic processing to increase its fructose content, making it sweeter than regular corn syrup and comparable in sweetness to table sugar.

HFCS is commonly used in soft drinks, baked goods, and processed foods due to its sweetness and low cost. Health evidence indicates that excessive consumption of HFCS, similar to other added sugars, may be linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and increased triglyceride levels. However, moderate consumption as part of a balanced diet is generally considered acceptable by health authorities.

When you spot HFCS on a label, it's often an indicator of added sugars, which nutritionists recommend limiting in the diet to promote better health.

Commonly found in: soft drinks, baked goods, processed foods, candies, sauces, desserts

What to watch

Excessive intake of HFCS is associated with obesity and metabolic disorders.
High consumption can lead to elevated triglyceride levels, raising heart disease risk.

FDA

HFCS is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.

Research

Research shows mixed results; some studies link HFCS to health issues when consumed in excess, while others suggest moderation minimizes risks.

Vegan

HFCS is plant-derived, making it suitable for vegan diets.

Sources: High-Fructose Corn Syrup Questions and Answers · High Fructose Corn Syrup: Is it worse than sugar?

Scout's take

Ultra-processed sweetener linked to metabolic syndrome, liver disease, and obesity.

The case against

Linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

from the analysis of Keebler Club Crackers Original

Linked to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

from the analysis of Nabisco CHIPS AHOY! COOKIES - MINI CHEWY 1X3.

More from Scout's analyses

Heavily processed sweetener linked to insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome. Added on top of multiple other sugars.

from the analysis of Oreo Frozen Ice Cream Dessert Sandwich

HFCS is metabolized differently than sucrose and is linked in epidemiological studies to fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome.

from the analysis of Oreo Double Stuf Chocolate

High fructose corn syrup is a highly processed sweetener linked to health issues when consumed frequently, and offers little nutritional value.

from the analysis of Ken's Steak House CAESAR DRESSING & MARINADE