What Kind of Sugar Are Corn Syrup Solids?

December 9, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the U.S. Pharmacopeia, corn syrup solids are a dried mixture of saccharides obtained by partial hydrolysis of corn starch. This means that to understand what kind of sugar corn syrup solids are, one must first explore their composition, which is predominantly a sugar known as glucose.

Quick Summary

Corn syrup solids are dehydrated corn syrup, existing as a powdered form of glucose derived from corn starch. This food ingredient is primarily a sweetener and bulking agent, often used in dry mixes, baby formula, and processed foods. It is distinct from high fructose corn syrup.

Key Points

Glucose-Based Sugar: Corn syrup solids are a powdered form of glucose, created by dehydrating liquid corn syrup derived from corn starch.
Not High Fructose Corn Syrup: They are fundamentally different from HFCS, which has been enzymatically processed to convert glucose into fructose.
Multi-Functional Ingredient: Used as more than just a sweetener, they also act as a bulking agent, humectant, and texture modifier in processed foods and dry mixes.
Contribute Added Sugars: As a concentrated source of glucose, they are considered an added sugar and can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar.
Common in Powdered Products: Their powdered form makes them ideal for instant drink mixes, coffee creamers, and certain infant formulas.
Distinct from Table Sugar: Unlike sucrose (table sugar), which is a mix of glucose and fructose, corn syrup solids consist primarily of glucose polymers.
Glycemic Impact: Due to their glucose content and rapid digestion, they have a high glycemic index.

Understanding the Fundamentals of Corn Syrup Solids

Corn syrup solids are essentially dehydrated corn syrup, representing a type of sugar with specific functional properties. The process involves breaking down corn starch into smaller sugar molecules through hydrolysis, then dehydrating the resulting liquid corn syrup into a fine powder.

Composed of glucose molecules and glucose polymers, corn syrup solids differ from table sugar (sucrose), which is a disaccharide of glucose and fructose. Their Dextrose Equivalent (DE) indicates the level of hydrolysis and sweetness, with higher DE values meaning sweeter syrups.

Corn Syrup Solids vs. Other Common Sweeteners

Comparing corn syrup solids to other sweeteners clarifies their nature. It's crucial to note that corn syrup solids are not the same as high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is created by converting some glucose to fructose via an enzymatic process.

Comparison Table: Corn Syrup Solids vs. Common Sugars


Feature	Corn Syrup Solids (Glucose)	Sucrose (Table Sugar)	High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
Primary Sugar Type	Glucose polymers	Glucose and Fructose (bound)	Glucose and Fructose (unbound)
Sweetness Level	Lower intensity than sucrose	Standard baseline of 100%	Comparable to sucrose, sometimes sweeter
Form	Dried, granular powder	Crystalline powder	Liquid
Production Process	Dehydrated corn syrup	Extracted from sugarcane or beets	Enzymatic conversion of corn syrup
Common Uses	Powdered mixes, baby formula	Baking, home cooking	Soft drinks, processed foods
Glycemic Index	High, due to glucose content	High	High

The Functional Role of Corn Syrup Solids in Food Production

Corn syrup solids offer various functional benefits in processed foods besides sweetness. Their powdered form is convenient for dry mixes like powdered beverages and infant formula, providing bulk and controlling water activity to extend shelf life.

Their functional properties include:

Moisture retention: Acting as a humectant to keep products fresh.
Texture modification: Contributing to creamy textures and preventing sugar crystallization.
Flavor masking: Used in applications like pharmaceuticals to mask flavors.
Thickening agent: Adding body and viscosity.

Nutritional and Health Considerations

Being a glucose-based sugar, corn syrup solids are quickly digested, leading to potential blood sugar spikes. They are considered an 'added sugar' due to their concentrated carbohydrates and lack of other nutritional value. Health organizations advise limiting all added sugars. While sometimes used in baby formula, particularly for lactose-sensitive infants, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.

Key considerations for corn syrup solids in your diet:

Check ingredient labels: Look for "corn syrup solids" in ingredient lists.
Monitor added sugar intake: Consume all added sugars in moderation.
Prioritize whole foods: Opt for natural sugar sources like fruit over large amounts of added sugars.

Conclusion: Corn Syrup Solids as a Functional Glucose Source

In conclusion, corn syrup solids are a powdered, glucose-based sugar derived from corn starch through dehydration. They are distinct from table sugar and HFCS in composition and form. In food production, they offer functional benefits like sweetening, moisture retention, and texture control. Nutritionally, they are an added sugar that provides calories and can affect blood sugar levels. Understanding the nature of corn syrup solids helps consumers make informed dietary choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main difference is the water content and form. Corn syrup is a liquid sweetener, while corn syrup solids are produced by dehydrating corn syrup to create a powdered or granular substance.

No, they are not the same. Corn syrup solids are primarily glucose. High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is made by further processing corn syrup to convert some of the glucose into fructose, which increases its sweetness.

Corn syrup solids are sometimes used as a carbohydrate source in baby formula, particularly for infants with lactose sensitivity, as they are a different type of sugar that can be easier for some babies to digest.

Generally, no. Corn syrup solids have a less intense sweetness compared to regular table sugar (sucrose). They are often used when a bulking agent with mild sweetness is desired.

Dextrose Equivalent, or DE, is a measure used in the food industry to indicate the reducing sugar content of a corn syrup solid, which reflects how much the corn starch has been hydrolyzed. A higher DE indicates a sweeter product.

Like any added sugar, corn syrup solids should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake can contribute to high calorie consumption and rapid blood sugar increases. Health organizations recommend limiting all forms of added sugars.

Corn syrup solids are found in a variety of products, including powdered drink mixes, coffee creamers, cereals, baked goods, sauces, and infant formula.