The Shift from Roots to Syrup
Historically, root beer began as a medicinal tonic brewed from a variety of roots and herbs, including sassafras, sarsaparilla, and wintergreen. Early sweeteners included molasses, honey, and maple syrup. However, in the 20th century, mass production led to a standardization of ingredients to increase efficiency and lower costs. A pivotal shift occurred in 1960 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of sassafras oil, which contains the compound safrole, due to concerns about its potential carcinogenic effects. This pushed manufacturers to rely on artificial flavorings to replicate the characteristic taste, and around the same time, high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) became a cost-effective and prevalent alternative to cane sugar for sweetening.
Why Corn Syrup Became So Common
Several factors contributed to the widespread adoption of high-fructose corn syrup in the soft drink industry. Primarily, HFCS is significantly cheaper to produce than cane sugar, making it an attractive option for large-scale manufacturers looking to maximize profits. It is also known for its stability in beverages, maintaining a consistent sweetness and texture on shelves. For decades, this made HFCS the go-to choice for popular soda brands, including most of the major root beer labels. As a result, when you pick up a can of A&W or Mug from a standard grocery store, you can almost certainly expect to see high-fructose corn syrup listed as a primary ingredient.
The Difference in Taste: Corn Syrup vs. Cane Sugar
While the nutritional impact of HFCS versus cane sugar has been a subject of debate among experts, some consumers and food scientists claim they can detect a difference in taste and mouthfeel. Cane sugar, or sucrose, is a 50/50 mix of fructose and glucose, while the HFCS used in most sodas is typically 55% fructose. Some research suggests this slight difference in composition can impact flavor perception and mouthfeel, with some blind taste tests indicating a preference for cane sugar-sweetened beverages. Craft root beer producers often highlight their use of real cane sugar to appeal to consumers seeking a more authentic or "richer" flavor profile.
A Comparison of Root Beer Sweeteners
| Brand | Sweetener Used | Notes | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| A&W | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Classic, widely available commercial root beer. | Widespread |
| Mug | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Another popular, commercially produced brand. | Widespread |
| Fitz's | Real Cane Sugar | Craft soda, often noted for superior flavor. | Regional/Specialty |
| Wild Bill's | Pure Cane Sugar | Craft soda, often sold online and at specialty stores. | Regional/Online |
| Bundaberg | Molasses & Cane Sugar | Australian brew, complex flavor profile. | Specialty/Online |
| Sprecher | Honey & Cane Sugar | Craft soda featuring a distinct sweetness from honey. | Regional/Specialty |
| Zevia | Stevia Extract | Zero-calorie option using a natural sweetener. | Widespread |
| Olipop | Cassava Root Syrup | Healthier alternative, includes prebiotic fibers. | Widespread |
Brands that Forego Corn Syrup
For those seeking a root beer without high-fructose corn syrup, the market offers a growing number of alternatives. These brands typically distinguish themselves by using premium sweeteners and highlighting their "natural" ingredients. Examples include:
- Fitz's Root Beer: This St. Louis-based company proudly advertises that its sodas are made exclusively with real cane sugar.
- Maine Root Beverages: Specializing in craft sodas, Maine Root sweetens its products with Fair Trade Certified organic cane sugar.
- Sprecher Root Beer: This craft brew is known for incorporating honey into its recipe for a unique flavor and mouthfeel.
- Wild Bill's Craft Soda: These vintage-style sodas are sweetened with pure cane sugar and are free of HFCS.
- Bundaberg Brewed Drinks: This Australian company ferments its root beer for several days using cane sugar, sarsaparilla, and molasses.
- Uncle Scott's All Natural Root Beer: A small-batch root beer explicitly made without high fructose corn syrup or artificial ingredients.
This variety shows that the choice of sweetener is a key differentiator in the modern root beer market. While major brands prioritize cost and consistency, smaller and craft producers often use their choice of sweetener as a unique selling point.
How to Find a Corn Syrup-Free Root Beer
The simplest way to determine if a root beer contains corn syrup is to check the ingredients list on the can or bottle. The label is required to list all ingredients in order of predominance by weight. For example, if "high-fructose corn syrup" is one of the first ingredients listed, it is the primary sweetener. To find brands that use alternative sweeteners, look for those labeled as "craft," "artisan," or "natural." Many specialty grocery stores and online retailers offer a wide selection of these beverages, with companies like Fitz's or Maine Root being readily available. Remember to also look for diet or zero-sugar versions, which use artificial sweeteners like aspartame or natural alternatives like stevia.
Conclusion: Read the Label
The question of whether root beer has corn syrup does not have a simple yes or no answer. The vast majority of mass-produced root beers from companies like A&W and Mug use high-fructose corn syrup for cost-effectiveness and mass appeal. However, a growing number of craft and specialty brands offer a taste of tradition by using real cane sugar, honey, or other natural sweeteners. For consumers who prefer to avoid corn syrup, the key is to always read the ingredient list before purchasing. This simple act of vigilance will ensure you find a root beer that meets your preferences for flavor and ingredients.
