What brand of ketchup does not contain high fructose corn syrup?

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Research indicates that a growing number of consumers are prioritizing healthier ingredient lists in their food products, prompting a shift away from additives like high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). This has made knowing what brand of ketchup does not contain high fructose corn syrup a key consideration for many grocery shoppers.

Quick Summary

Several ketchup brands offer products free from high fructose corn syrup, catering to the demand for healthier ingredients. Options range from well-known companies offering 'Simply' or 'Organic' versions to specialty brands focusing entirely on natural ingredients. These products typically use cane sugar, honey, or no sweetener at all, providing alternatives for various dietary needs.

Key Points

Check for Alternatives: Many popular brands like Heinz offer specific versions, such as "Simply Tomato Ketchup," that use cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup.
Explore Organic Options: Brands like Annie's Organic Ketchup and Heinz Organic use organic cane sugar and are a great choice for avoiding HFCS.
Consider Premium Brands: Sir Kensington's is a premium option that is consistently free of high fructose corn syrup and focuses on high-quality ingredients.
Look for Unsweetened Varieties: For those seeking to eliminate added sugar entirely, Primal Kitchen offers an organic unsweetened ketchup.
Read the Label Carefully: The most reliable way to confirm the absence of HFCS is to always check the ingredient list on the back of the bottle.
Taste Different Sweeteners: Ketchup made with real sugar can have a different flavor profile than HFCS-sweetened versions, so trying different brands is recommended to find your favorite.

The Shift from High Fructose Corn Syrup

High fructose corn syrup became a common ingredient in many processed foods, including ketchup, due to its low cost and long shelf life. However, growing consumer awareness about nutrition has led many to seek out products made with simpler, more natural ingredients. High-quality ketchups today often rely on alternative sweeteners or the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes.

The Health-Conscious Ketchup Market

Healthier ketchup options have moved from niche health food stores to mainstream grocery shelves. Shoppers can now easily find products that use real sugar, are organic, or are entirely unsweetened. This provides a clear path for those who want to avoid high fructose corn syrup without sacrificing the classic taste of ketchup.

Leading Brands That Use Real Sugar

Many of the most popular brands have responded to consumer demand by introducing alternatives sweetened with cane sugar, providing a familiar taste profile without HFCS.

Heinz Simply Tomato Ketchup: This widely available option is made with a simple list of ingredients, substituting high fructose corn syrup with cane sugar for a classic, rich flavor.
Red Gold Tomato Ketchup Made With Real Sugar: This brand offers a premium-quality, full-flavored ketchup that is gluten-free and uses real sugar.
Trader Joe's Organic Ketchup: A favorite among many for its balanced sweet and tangy flavor, this organic option is sweetened with cane sugar.

High-Quality Organic and Specialty Brands

For those seeking even more natural or specialized options, several brands focus on organic and premium ingredients.

Sir Kensington's Classic Ketchup: This brand prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, including vine-ripened tomatoes, and is non-GMO Project Verified. It contains no high fructose corn syrup and is sweetened with organic cane sugar.
Annie's Organic Ketchup: A certified USDA organic and non-GMO product, Annie's ketchup uses California-grown tomatoes and organic cane sugar, with no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Primal Kitchen Organic Unsweetened Ketchup: This is an excellent choice for those on keto or other low-sugar diets. It contains no added sweeteners of any kind and is made with organic ingredients.

How to Find the Right Ketchup for You

When shopping, the most reliable method is to read the ingredient list on the product label. Always look for brands that explicitly state "no high fructose corn syrup" or list cane sugar, organic sugar, or a natural, non-caloric sweetener as the sweetening agent.

Comparison of Ketchup Brands Without HFCS


Brand	Sweetener	Organic?	Dietary Notes	Key Features
Heinz Simply	Cane Sugar	No	Gluten-Free	Simple ingredients, classic taste
Heinz Organic	Organic Cane Sugar	Yes	Gluten-Free	Made with organically grown tomatoes
Sir Kensington's	Organic Cane Sugar	No (Classic)	Vegan, Non-GMO	Premium, high-quality ingredients
Annie's Organic	Organic Cane Sugar	Yes	Vegan, Non-GMO	Certified USDA Organic
Primal Kitchen	None	Yes	Unsweetened, Keto, Paleo	Made with organic ingredients and no added sugar
Red Gold Real Sugar	Real Sugar	No	Gluten-Free	Full-flavored with real sugar

Conclusion

Finding a high-quality ketchup without high fructose corn syrup is easier than ever, thanks to the wide variety of products now available. Whether you prefer a classic taste with cane sugar, an organic blend, or a completely unsweetened option, there is a brand to fit your preferences. By taking a moment to read the ingredient label, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your dietary goals. For more in-depth product comparisons and ratings, authoritative sources like the Wirecutter section of the New York Times provide comprehensive reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Heinz offers several varieties without high fructose corn syrup. Their "Simply Tomato Ketchup" is sweetened with cane sugar, while their "Organic Ketchup" uses organic cane sugar.

High fructose corn syrup is a highly processed sweetener, whereas cane sugar comes from sugarcane. While both are sources of added sugar, many prefer cane sugar for its less processed nature and simpler ingredient profile.

Most organic ketchups, including popular brands like Annie's, are made without high fructose corn syrup and typically use organic cane sugar. However, it's always best practice to check the ingredient list to be certain.

Yes, Primal Kitchen offers an organic, unsweetened ketchup that contains no added sugars, making it a popular choice for those following a ketogenic or paleo diet.

High fructose corn syrup is often used in food production because it is a very inexpensive and stable sweetener, which helps reduce manufacturing costs and prolong shelf life.

Many brands will explicitly label their HFCS-free options with phrases like "Simply," "Organic," or "Made with Real Sugar." To be sure, always read the ingredient list on the bottle.

You can find these ketchups at most major grocery stores, organic food markets like Whole Foods and Thrive Market, and from online retailers such as Amazon.