Most commercial cough drops rely on corn syrup for its low cost, ability to prevent crystallization, and desirable consistency. However, for those with dietary restrictions or a preference for more natural ingredients, finding alternatives to corn syrup is a priority. Fortunately, a growing number of manufacturers are offering products that use healthier sweeteners, which can be just as effective at soothing a sore throat and quieting a cough.
Why Avoid Corn Syrup in Cough Drops?
For many, avoiding corn syrup is a health-conscious decision. High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), in particular, has been linked to potential health issues when consumed in large quantities. The refined sugar can contribute to blood sugar spikes, making it a concern for diabetics and those watching their sugar intake. Even regular corn syrup is a highly processed ingredient that some prefer to avoid in favor of more wholesome, less-processed alternatives. By choosing cough drops with no corn syrup, you can alleviate throat irritation while minimizing your intake of processed sugars and artificial additives.
Healthier Alternatives to Corn Syrup
Manufacturers have adopted several natural and sugar-free alternatives to provide a sweet taste and proper texture for their lozenges. Some of the most common include:
Xylitol
Xylitol is a natural, plant-derived sugar alcohol found in many fruits and vegetables. It has a similar sweetness to sugar but contains fewer calories and a lower glycemic index. A significant benefit of xylitol is its positive impact on oral health, as it can help prevent tooth decay by inhibiting bacteria from sticking to teeth. Xlear cough drops, for example, are sweetened with 100% xylitol.
Stevia
Stevia is a non-caloric sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia plant. It is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar and is a popular choice for sugar-free products because it does not affect blood glucose levels. Herbion Naturals offers sugar-free cough drops that are sweetened with stevia and are an excellent choice for those looking for a truly sugar-free option.
Brown Rice Syrup
Brown rice syrup is a less-refined sweetener that provides a milder, butterscotch-like flavor. Brands like Zand use pure brown rice syrup to sweeten their herbal lozenges, offering a simple ingredient list free of cane sugar or corn syrup. It is important to note that while less processed, brown rice syrup is still a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation.
Honey and Other Natural Options
Many brands use pure honey as a base, which is a classic natural remedy for soothing sore throats. For example, Wedderspoon Organic offers Manuka honey drops with bee propolis for powerful relief. Other brands may use ingredients like pectin, fruit juice concentrates, or evaporated cane juice to achieve sweetness and texture. Some all-natural cough drops, like those from Herbion, utilize a blend of herbs like licorice and hyssop for their soothing properties, sweetened with natural stevia.
Comparison Table of Corn Syrup-Free Cough Drops
| Brand | Sweetener Used | Key Features | Active Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Xlear | Xylitol | Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Moisturizes Dry Mouth | Menthol | Can be a great option for promoting oral health. |
| Zand Herbalozenge | Brown Rice Syrup | Natural, No artificial colors/flavors, Herbal blend | Menthol or Herbal Blend | Combines herbs like hyssop, sage, and licorice. |
| Herbion Naturals | Stevia | Sugar-Free, Herbal formula, Non-sedative | Menthol or Herbal Blend | Free of artificial sweeteners and colors. |
| Wedderspoon | Organic Manuka Honey | Certified organic, Gluten-Free, Propolis added | Pectin or Honey | Uses genuine New Zealand Manuka honey. |
How to Read Labels for Corn Syrup-Free Products
Finding a corn syrup-free product requires careful label reading. Corn syrup can be listed under different names, so being vigilant is key. Look for and avoid the following ingredients:
- High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): This is the most common form found in processed foods.
- Glucose Syrup: Often derived from cornstarch, this is essentially another name for corn syrup.
- Maize Syrup: Another term for corn syrup, particularly outside the US.
- Dextrose: A simple sugar often derived from corn.
Instead, look for products that explicitly state they are sweetened with alternatives like xylitol, stevia, monk fruit, honey, or brown rice syrup. The shorter the ingredient list, the better, as it minimizes the risk of hidden additives.
DIY Natural Cough Drop Recipe
For those who prefer a truly homemade solution, a simple recipe can be made at home. All you need is a natural sweetener like honey, water, and some soothing herbs. This recipe uses honey for its soothing properties and natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw honey
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/4 tsp of menthol crystals for a cooling effect
Instructions:
- Combine honey and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in ginger and cinnamon.
- Carefully drop small spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Choosing cough drops with no corn syrup is a simple but effective way to opt for a more natural remedy for throat irritation. With a variety of brands now offering products sweetened with xylitol, stevia, and brown rice syrup, there are many healthy and effective options available. Whether you prefer a ready-made product from a trusted brand like Zand or Xlear, or you choose to create your own DIY herbal drops with honey, you can find soothing relief without resorting to high-fructose sweeteners. Always remember to check labels carefully and pick the best choice for your personal dietary needs.
For further information on natural sweeteners, you can read more on the health benefits of Xylitol.
