High Fructose Corn Syrup: The Standard Sweetener
For several decades, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has been the main type of sugar used in Mountain Dew in the United States. The switch to this corn-based sweetener occurred in the 1980s for many major beverage companies, primarily due to economic factors and corn subsidies that made it a cheaper alternative to traditional granulated sugar. It is a liquid sweetener composed of a mix of fructose and glucose, typically in a ratio of 55% fructose and 42% glucose (known as HFCS 55), making its composition very similar to sucrose, or table sugar.
The Role of HFCS in Mountain Dew
HFCS is more than just a sweetening agent; its liquid form and chemical properties make it ideal for mass beverage production. It easily dissolves and mixes with other ingredients, ensuring a consistent flavor profile in every bottle or can. The presence of HFCS, along with other ingredients like concentrated orange juice, citric acid, and caffeine, contributes to Mountain Dew's distinctive citrus flavor and powerful energy kick. The use of HFCS has become a defining characteristic of the beverage for many consumers, setting it apart from sodas that still use cane sugar.
Mountain Dew with Real Sugar
In response to consumer demand and concerns surrounding HFCS, PepsiCo has periodically offered variations of Mountain Dew that use real, or cane, sugar instead.
- Mountain Dew Throwback (now 'Real Sugar'): First introduced as a limited edition in 2009, this version became a permanent offering for some time. It was formulated with real sugar, giving it a slightly different, some would say cleaner, taste compared to the standard HFCS version. The product aimed to capture a nostalgic flavor profile, reminiscent of when sodas were more commonly made with cane sugar.
- International Variations: In many other countries, including some regions of Europe and the Philippines, Mountain Dew is already produced with sugar rather than high fructose corn syrup. This means that the exact type of sugar in a can of Mountain Dew can depend on the country of purchase.
Diet and Zero Sugar Versions
For those seeking the Mountain Dew experience without the calories from sugar, the brand offers several alternatives. These products use non-nutritive sweeteners to provide sweetness without contributing significantly to caloric intake.
- Diet Mountain Dew: This version traditionally used a blend of artificial sweeteners, which has evolved over time. The recipe now includes aspartame, sucralose, and acesulfame potassium to achieve its sweet, low-calorie flavor profile.
- Mountain Dew Zero Sugar: Launched in 2020, this beverage uses the same blend of artificial sweeteners as the diet version: aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and sucralose. It was positioned to offer a flavor closer to the original Mountain Dew, but without any sugar or calories.
Comparison Table: Sweeteners in Mountain Dew
| Feature | Standard Mountain Dew (US) | Mountain Dew Real Sugar | Diet Mountain Dew / Zero Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) | Cane Sugar (Sucrose) | Aspartame, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium |
| Sweetener Source | Corn Starch | Sugarcane / Sugar Beets | Chemical Synthesis |
| Caloric Content | High | High | Zero |
| Flavor Profile | Known for its signature, potent sweetness | Often perceived as having a "cleaner" taste | Can have a slight aftertaste from artificial sweeteners |
| Availability | Widely available in the US | Varies; sometimes limited or region-specific | Widely available |
Is HFCS Worse Than Regular Sugar?
While some consumers believe HFCS is unhealthier than regular sugar, scientific consensus suggests there is little metabolic difference between them when consumed in equal amounts. Both are composed of fructose and glucose, although in slightly different chemical structures. The primary health concern stems from the overconsumption of any type of added sugar, whether it's HFCS or sucrose, as both contribute to excessive caloric intake and potential health risks like obesity and Type 2 diabetes. The reason for the widespread negative perception of HFCS is largely historical, tied to its introduction as a cheaper alternative and extensive negative media coverage.
The Changing Landscape of Sweeteners
Consumer preferences for healthier and lower-sugar options have driven beverage companies, including PepsiCo, to innovate. The introduction of Mountain Dew Zero Sugar and the maintenance of Diet Mountain Dew demonstrate the market's shift towards diverse sweetener options. The conversation around what type of sugar is used in Mountain Dew, therefore, is not static. It reflects broader trends in nutrition, public health, and consumer demands for greater transparency and choice in their food and drink.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the type of sugar used in Mountain Dew varies depending on the specific product line and geographic location. The most common formulation in the U.S. relies on high fructose corn syrup. However, special editions use cane sugar, and low-calorie versions use a blend of artificial sweeteners. Understanding these differences allows consumers to make informed choices about their beverage consumption, recognizing that excessive intake of any added sugar, whether natural or manufactured, carries health implications. The product's ingredient list is the best source of information for determining which sweetener is used in a specific Mountain Dew product.
How to Check Which Sweetener Is Used
To be certain which sweetener is used, consumers should always read the ingredient list on the product's packaging. The ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so the primary sweetener will be near the top. For example, a can of standard Mountain Dew will list "HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP" early in the list, while a can of "Real Sugar" will list "SUGAR". Diet and Zero Sugar versions will list the artificial sweeteners such as "ASPARTAME" and "SUCRALOSE".
