The Attempt to Rename High Fructose Corn Syrup
Amid growing consumer concern regarding high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), the Corn Refiners Association (CRA) attempted to rebrand the sweetener. In 2010, the CRA petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to allow the use of "corn sugar" as an alternative name on food labels. The industry's argument was that consumers were confused by the term HFCS and that the new name would more accurately reflect its origin (corn) and basic nature (a sugar).
However, after a 20-month review period, the FDA denied the request in 2012. The agency based its decision on two key points. First, they stated that the term "sugar" is generally used for a dried, solid, and crystalline food, while "syrup" describes a liquid food. Since HFCS is a liquid, the name change would not accurately reflect its nature. Second, and perhaps more importantly, the FDA concluded that using the name "corn sugar" could confuse consumers and mislead them about the product's fundamental differences from table sugar. This was especially critical for individuals with hereditary fructose intolerance, who need to carefully monitor their fructose intake. The ruling solidified the official name, and manufacturers must continue to label the ingredient as high fructose corn syrup.
Understanding the Many Names for Added Sugars
Because the petition was denied, the simple answer is that there is no new name for high fructose corn syrup. This means that when reading an ingredient list, you should be on the lookout for the term "high fructose corn syrup". However, savvy manufacturers can still obfuscate the ingredient through other means, and there are many other added sugars to be aware of. To truly manage your intake, a broader understanding of sugar labeling is needed.
Here are some names to look for when reading ingredients:
- High Fructose Corn Syrup: The official and most direct name.
- Corn Syrup: A broader term that indicates a liquid sweetener from corn, which may also contain high fructose levels.
- Glucose-Fructose Syrup, Isoglucose, Maize Syrup: These are alternative names, particularly in the European Union.
- Fructose or Fructose Syrup: A highly concentrated version of HFCS (HFCS-90) might be labeled simply as "fructose," allowing a product to technically claim it contains no HFCS.
- Other Added Sugars: Look for dextrose, sucrose, barley malt, maltose, rice syrup, and fruit juice concentrate. All of these are forms of added sugar that should be consumed in moderation.
HFCS, Table Sugar, and Your Health
For years, debate has raged about whether HFCS is inherently worse for your health than regular table sugar (sucrose). The FDA has stated that it is not aware of evidence proving HFCS is less safe than other traditional sweeteners with similar fructose and glucose content. The health risks associated with HFCS are largely tied to its high fructose content and its widespread presence in a range of unhealthy processed foods, which encourages overconsumption.
Comparing HFCS and Table Sugar (Sucrose)
| Feature | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Table Sugar (Sucrose) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Free glucose and fructose molecules; common types have 42% or 55% fructose. | One glucose and one fructose molecule chemically bonded (50/50 ratio). |
| Metabolism | The free fructose is metabolized by the liver, potentially increasing liver fat. | The bond is rapidly broken in the digestive system, releasing glucose and fructose to be metabolized. |
| Sourcing | Made from corn starch through an enzymatic process. | Made from sugar cane or sugar beets. |
| Form | A liquid syrup, making it easy for manufacturers to use. | A crystalline solid. |
| Common Use | Soft drinks, processed foods, cereals, baked goods, condiments. | Confections, baked goods, and household use. |
The Health Concerns of Excessive Added Sugars
Whether from HFCS or table sugar, consistently consuming high amounts of added sugar is detrimental to your health. The primary issue is the overconsumption of sweeteners in processed and ultra-processed foods. These foods are often high in calories and low in nutrients, contributing to a variety of chronic health problems.
- Obesity and Weight Gain: Added sugars provide empty calories. When the liver is flooded with fructose, it can trigger increased fat production, which can contribute to weight gain.
- Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes: High sugar intake, particularly from sweetened beverages, is linked to insulin resistance, a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): The liver's processing of excess fructose can lead to increased liver fat, contributing to conditions like NAFLD.
- Heart Health Issues: High consumption of added sugar is associated with increased triglycerides, high blood pressure, and a higher risk of heart disease.
Practical Steps to Reduce Your Intake
To manage your health, the focus should not be on avoiding HFCS specifically, but on reducing your overall intake of added sugars.
Here are some effective strategies:
- Read Ingredient Labels Carefully: Look for "high fructose corn syrup" as well as other aliases like "corn syrup," "fructose," or "glucose-fructose syrup". Remember that ingredients are listed by weight, so the higher up the list, the more of that ingredient is in the food.
- Cut Back on Sugary Drinks: Soft drinks, juices with added sweeteners, and energy drinks are often major sources of HFCS. Replacing these with water or unsweetened alternatives is a highly effective step.
- Choose Whole Foods: Focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. These provide natural sugars alongside essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which aid in digestion and minimize sugar spikes.
- Cook at Home More Often: Preparing your own meals gives you complete control over the ingredients. This allows you to avoid hidden sweeteners and experiment with natural, low-sugar alternatives.
- Seek Healthier Sweeteners in Moderation: If you need to sweeten something, opt for a small amount of a less refined sweetener like pure maple syrup or honey. Better yet, let your palate adjust to less sweet foods over time.
Conclusion
There is no new name for high fructose corn syrup. The FDA's 2012 rejection of the "corn sugar" petition means the ingredient must continue to be labeled with its official name, along with other alternative syrups. While the debate continues about whether HFCS is inherently worse than other sugars, the consensus among health experts is clear: the most significant health risks are associated with the overall overconsumption of any added sugars. By becoming a vigilant label reader and prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods in your nutrition diet, you can effectively manage your intake and improve your long-term health outcomes.
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