Tag: Isoglucose

According to the Food and Drug Administration, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) can come in different formulations, most commonly HFCS 42 and HFCS 55. While both are liquid sweeteners composed of glucose and fructose, the statement "Is glucose-fructose syrup the same as high fructose corn syrup?" has a nuanced answer that depends on context and geography.

Unlike in the United States, where 'high fructose corn syrup' (HFCS) is a common label, the equivalent sweetener is referred to by different names in the European Union. Consumers in the EU will find this product listed on food labels as either glucose-fructose syrup or isoglucose, reflecting differences in composition and regulation.

While the United States is one of the world's highest per capita consumers of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), its usage and availability differ significantly across the globe, influenced by local agriculture, trade regulations, and consumer habits. This leads to a patchwork of sweetener usage worldwide, with many nations opting for different alternatives.

Despite a common misconception, high fructose corn syrup is not banned in European countries, although its usage is significantly lower and historically more restricted than in the United States. The reasons involve a complex interplay of regulations, local agricultural practices, and consumer preferences.

Unlike the United States where its use is widespread, the average UK person consumes a tiny 0.38kg of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) each year, compared to a US average of 24.78kg. While not banned, HFCS is an exceptionally rare sweetener in England, used for specific purposes rather than as a cheap, widespread replacement for sugar.

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?.

According to the European Food Information Council, the terms glucose-fructose syrup, isoglucose, and high fructose corn syrup are often used interchangeably, causing significant consumer confusion. This article clarifies what is another name for high fructose corn syrup and how to spot it on ingredient lists.

Despite the widespread misconception that high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is banned in Europe, this is not the case. The perception stems from a combination of different naming conventions, stricter production quotas that were in place for decades, and varying dietary preferences between continents. In reality, European equivalents exist and are regulated differently.

According to the European Food Information Council (Eufic), glucose-fructose syrup is a sweetener made from starch derived from crops like wheat, maize, or potatoes. This versatile liquid sweetener is used in a wide range of food and beverage products, offering manufacturers a cost-effective and functional ingredient.

Over 90% of global food manufacturing sweeteners are sucrose, however in the United States, usage of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is nearly equal to that of sucrose, emphasizing its widespread use. Many manufacturers use different names for this additive because of its negative public perception.