Does High-Fructose Corn Syrup Have Other Names?

According to the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, mercury has been detected in about a third of brand-name products containing high-fructose corn syrup. Navigating grocery aisles requires vigilance, as manufacturers sometimes use alternative terminology to label this common sweetener, raising the question: does high-fructose corn syrup have other names?.

Quick Summary

This guide reveals the aliases and common names for high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) found on food labels, helping consumers identify hidden sources. It details the difference between HFCS and regular corn syrup, explores why manufacturers use various names, and explains how to spot this ingredient in processed foods.

Key Points

• Hidden Names: High-fructose corn syrup is often disguised under alternative names like glucose-fructose syrup, isoglucose, maize syrup, and corn sweetener.

• Common Confusion: Terms like "fructose" or "isolated fructose" may label syrups with high fructose percentage.

• Distinction from Corn Syrup: Regular corn syrup is almost 100% glucose, while HFCS has glucose converted into fructose.

• Prevalence: HFCS is commonly found in many packaged items, including cereals, sauces, and baked goods.

• Decoding Labels: Identify HFCS by reading the ingredient list, looking for aliases, and checking for multiple sweetener names.

• Focus on Added Sugars: Reduce overall intake of all added sugars by choosing whole, unprocessed foods.

What Exactly Is High-Fructose Corn Syrup?

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a common sweetener made from corn starch. Enzymes are used to convert some of the glucose in regular corn syrup (which is almost 100% glucose) into fructose. The most common types, HFCS 42 and HFCS 55, contain 42% and 55% fructose, respectively. This higher fructose content makes it sweeter and often more economical than sucrose (table sugar), which is a 50/50 mix of glucose and fructose.

The Common Aliases of High-Fructose Corn Syrup

Recognizing the different names manufacturers may use for HFCS is important for consumers. These alternative names can include: glucose-fructose syrup, especially in the European Union; isoglucose; corn sugar or fructose syrup (though the FDA denied renaming HFCS as "corn sugar"); maize syrup; fruit fructose or isolated fructose; and corn sweetener or corn syrup solids.

Comparing High-Fructose Corn Syrup with Other Sweeteners

While sweeteners differ chemically, the body processes all added sugars similarly, and overconsumption is a key health concern.

Feature	High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)	Table Sugar (Sucrose)	Regular Corn Syrup	Honey	Agave Nectar
Source	Corn starch	Sugarcane or sugar beets	Corn starch	Flower nectar gathered by bees	Agave plant
Composition	Varying mix of glucose and fructose	50% glucose, 50% fructose	Almost 100% glucose	Mix of fructose, glucose, and other sugars	Very high in fructose
Processing	Enzymatic conversion	Refined	Enzymatic breakdown	Minimally processed	Highly processed
Taste	Sweeter than glucose	Standard sweet taste	Less sweet	Distinctive floral/sweet	Sweeter than sugar
Health Concerns	Linked to negative health effects with excessive intake	Similar concerns with excessive intake	Contributes to added sugar intake	Added sugar, some benefits in moderation	High fructose content can be negative

Foods Where HFCS Is Often Hidden

HFCS is found in many processed foods. Check labels on items like cereals and granola bars, sauces and condiments, baked goods, yogurt and dairy, packaged meals, and juice and beverages.

How to Spot Hidden HFCS on Labels

To manage your HFCS intake:

1. Read Ingredient Lists: Always check the full ingredient list.
2. Learn the Aliases: Look for terms like "glucose-fructose syrup," "isoglucose," "corn sweetener," and "maize syrup". Also, watch for "fructose" or "fructose syrup".
3. Identify Multiple Sweeteners: Manufacturers sometimes use several types of sugar.
4. Note Ingredient Order: Ingredients higher on the list indicate a larger quantity.
5. Check "Added Sugars": The Nutrition Facts panel includes a line for added sugars.

Conclusion

High-fructose corn syrup does have other names, such as "glucose-fructose syrup" and "isoglucose". Carefully reading ingredient lists and recognizing these different names can help control intake of added sugars. Limiting all added sugars is widely recommended to mitigate health risks associated with excessive consumption. Prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods is key to a healthier diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)?

High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener made from corn starch that has undergone an enzymatic process to convert some of its glucose into fructose.

What is the difference between HFCS and regular corn syrup?

Regular corn syrup is composed of nearly 100% glucose, while high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is further processed to convert a portion of that glucose into fructose.

Is "corn sugar" another name for HFCS?

The FDA rejected a petition to rename HFCS to "corn sugar." However, some higher-fructose versions may be labeled simply as "fructose".

Are terms like "glucose-fructose syrup" the same as HFCS?

Yes, terms like "glucose-fructose syrup" and "isoglucose" are common names for HFCS in other countries, particularly in the European Union.

Why do food manufacturers use different names for HFCS?

Manufacturers may use different names to appeal to health-conscious consumers, making it difficult to identify added sugars.

Where can HFCS be found in processed foods?

HFCS is often hidden in a wide range of processed items, including soft drinks, baked goods, condiments, cereals, and flavored yogurts.

What are some practical tips for avoiding HFCS?

To avoid HFCS, read the ingredient list, learn the various aliases, and prioritize whole, unprocessed foods.